Welcome! My name is Guadalupe (Lupe) Avalos, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in the state of CA. As a young adult, I began to have an avid interest in personal growth and development. My interest led me to pursue an undergraduate degree from CSU Fresno in Child Development, and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I enjoy my profession and find fulfillment in supporting individuals reach their desired goals.
About Me
I have been providing mental health services for 13 years to children, adolescents, adults, families, and the military population in a variety of settings. This includes county mental health, behavioral health, schools, foster care, and now private practice.
I enjoy working with children and parents as I believe equipping children with coping skills at a young age aids in building resiliency over time. Because I know parenting is challenging, I strive to provide a supportive environment where parents can feel comfortable expressing their challenges and struggles. In addition, I provide therapy to adults facing anxiety, depression, women’s issues, co-dependency in relationship, and I have a special interest in working with individuals facing grief and loss.
My Approach
My approach when working with individuals is first and foremost founded on unconditional positive regard. It is the foundation of any therapeutic relationship. Therapy is a place where individuals reveal their struggles and vulnerabilities and it is important to maintain a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment. My work with clients is then individually tailored; however, I draw a great deal from Family Systems, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and Existential Therapy. I also take a psychoeducational approach and provide parenting strategies, resources, and materials when pertinent.
Lastly, but certainly not least, my faith as a Christian woman undoubtedly influences my style and I welcome faith and spirituality into the therapy session. You will notice a heavy influence of faith and spirituality throughout this website which I hope is of benefit for you.
Education
Pepperdine University | Los Angeles CA 2006 Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
California State University Fresno | 2004 Bachelors of Science in Child Development, Minor in English
“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.” – Viktor Frankl: Man’s Search for Meaning
Every human being will face challenges and adversities in life, some more than others. Yet I believe that with help, it is possible to get to a place of healing and come out a little stronger and wiser on the other side. I look forward to supporting you through this process. Feel free to contact me for a phone consultation and discuss how I can support you.
Blessings and growth always,
Lupe