I am a Clinical Forensic Psychologist licensed by the California Board of Psychology and have been practicing throughout Los Angeles County for 10 years. As a forensic psychologist, I have extensive experience in working with high-risk populations within the criminal justice setting. This experience has enabled me to work with a wide range of concerns including chronic trauma exposure, depression, anxiety, substance use, high-risk behaviors with potential to inflict self-harm and harm onto others, interpersonal issues, and issues related to self-esteem and self-acceptance. I have experience in providing services to a wide range of ages and diverse cultural backgrounds, including the LGBTQI+ community.
I concurrently work as an auditor and trainer for the L.A. County Department of Mental Health. I also serve as a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Psychology, California Psychological Law and Ethics Examination (CPLEE). These roles have instilled an ongoing use of a high-functioning ethical compass. I periodically serve as an adjunct professor at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, keeping me up-to-date on psychological research to promote the learning of aspiring psychologists.
My work as a client-centered psychologist with high-risk populations has promoted a non-judgmental approach in working with my clients and providing unconditional acceptance for who they are. I apply interventions unique to the needs of my clients and tailor my strategies that will promote the most effective treatment outcomes. I employ a strength-based, solution-focused approach and believe my clients’ are experts and involve them in the treatment process to help them overcome their greatest obstacles. I work at that pace of my clients; however, provide motivation and support to promote ongoing progress. I collaborate with my clients in giving them the skill set for long term success. I would like to thank you for your consideration as your mental health provider.
Additional areas of focus: Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue
Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
CA Psychologist PSY29008
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Dr. Michelle Garcia. 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.
Dr. Garcia was the best! She was great at listening and was very attentive and understanding.
Written on May 21, 2021 after therapy with Michelle for 8 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, self esteem, anger management, career difficulties, coping with life changes, and adhd