I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of California and Texas. I have more than 10 years of combined professional experience working in child welfare and abuse, domestic violence, mental health court programs, substance use disorders and complex trauma. As well as working with law enforcement/first responders.
*EMDR trained therapist
*Certification in Domestic Violence Peer Counseling and Advocacy *Certification in Child forensic Interviewing
*Currently working on a Drug and Alcohol Counselor Certification
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I work within a client centered focus forum and frequently utilize cognitive behavioral therapy. My focus is to help you unravel those thoughts/behaviors that create negative responses in your life and guide you through developing realistic tools that will yield a positive outcome, whatever that may look like to you.
I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I believe in establishing rapport and trust with my clients, so they are able to feel as open as needed to unpack things that hinder you from being your best self. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support and guide you through that process.
Additional areas of focus: Relationship issues, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, Attachment issues, Codependency, Communication problems, Control issues, Domestic Violence, Drug and Alcohol Addiction, First Responder Issues, Forgiveness, Guilt and shame, Impulsivity, Isolation / loneliness, Mood disorders , Panic disorder and panic attacks, Paranoia, Personality Disorders, Phobias, Post-traumatic stress, Process addiction (porn, exercise, gambling), Self-love, Social anxiety and phobia
Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
TX LCSW 112461
CA LCSW 101338
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Desiree Alvarado. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Desiree Alvarado is supportive and has practical and applicable advice to give. She gives me just the right articles to read and worksheets to effectively help me uncover hidden elements of my disorganized psyche. I really enjoy working with her.
Written on Feb 05, 2024 after therapy with Desiree for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue