MEET MICHELLE
Hi, I'm Michelle CORTEZ
an associate marriage and family therapist.
Therapy can be a place to reconnect, with yourself, with others, and with what matters most. I work with individuals, couples, and adolescents, and I’m passionate about helping people build more connected, grounded lives. My work is rooted in a relational and trauma-informed approach because I truly believe healing begins in the context of safe, supportive relationships.
Whether you're processing past trauma, navigating a life transition, or working through relationship challenges, I aim to create a space where you feel safe to explore your story and supported in your path forward. Whatever brings you to therapy, you’re not alone. Many of the people I work with are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or challenges related to cultural identity, self-worth, or body image.
I also specialize in working with LGBTQ+ clients and those exploring identity, sexuality, and relationship structures, including ethical non-monogamy (ENM). For couples, I help partners repair trust, improve communication, and reconnect emotionally, fostering a stronger and more authentic foundation.
HOW WE’LL WORK TOGETHER
You’re not just here to talk, you’re here to grow. I take a collaborative, active role in sessions, helping you not only process your experiences but also gain practical tools and clear direction. Depending on your needs, I may integrate approaches such as client-centered therapy, couples counseling using The Gottman Method, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), narrative therapy, exposure and response prevention (ERP), motivational interviewing, and therapeutic journaling. Together, we’ll explore both the “why” behind what you’re experiencing and the “how” for creating meaningful change.
THERAPeutic approaches i use:
Client-Centered Therapy
Couples Counseling (Gottman Method)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Narrative Therapy
Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP)
Motivational Interviewing
Therapeutic Journaling
We’ll explore both why things happen and how to create real, lasting change.
“the only way out is through.” - ROBERT FROST
ready to begin?
Start your journey — Schedule a free consult.
Let’s work together to build a stronger, more connected life.
MICHELLE’S EDUCATION
License
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, AMFT # 146795
Supervised by Christina Mathieson, Founder and LMFT License #115093
Education
Masters of Arts: Clinical Psychology (Emphasis Marriage and Family Therapy) - Pepperdine University
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology - California State University, Fullerton
Specialized Trainings AND CERTIFICATES
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Functional Family Therapy
Narrative Therapy
Trauma Focused CBT
