About

Itzel MolinaAddressing your issues is my goal.

In my DBT therapy practice, I believe in providing clients with a safe and nonjudgmental environment. You will be met with warmth, compassion, and understanding when you walk through my door. I view therapy as a collaborative process, and I strive to build a trusting relationship with each of my clients based on authenticity and equality.

During your experience in therapy, we will work together to tackle the issues that brought you to therapy. Through individual therapy, you can explore your thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. I believe in taking an active, problem-solving approach to therapy, and I will work with you in and out of sessions to help you achieve your life-worth-living goals.

Through evidence-based interventions tailored to your needs, my work allows you to gain insight into your tendencies and learn more effective ways of dealing with life’s struggles. I rely heavily on case formulation and understanding the unique transactions between you and your environment and their relation to the problems that brought you to therapy.

In my therapy room, you can expect a warm and supportive atmosphere. Together, we will work through any struggles you may face, and I will provide you with the tools and support you need to overcome them. My approach involves empathy, understanding, and directness because I believe in empowering my clients to take control of their lives and reach their full potential.

The journey is challenging but beneficial.

When you decide to become my client, you can expect a journey of self-discovery, growth, and transformation. It won’t always be easy, but you can gain greater fulfillment and purpose with my guidance and support.

Whether you need help managing difficult emotions, navigating relationship issues, or finding your place, I am here to help.

Ultimately, my work is precisely the answer to what you are looking for if you are ready to improve your life, relationships, and overall well-being. Through individual therapy with me, you can expect to gain the tools, insight, and support you need to live a life that is truly worth living.

About Me

HeadshotSeeking help is a courageous first step.

Hi, I’m Itzel. I am a licensed psychotherapist in California and my native Costa Rica. I have completed Intensive Plus DBT training in addition to working at Clearview, a full DBT fidelity program. I obtained my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California (USC) and have spent 20 years in health and safety leadership roles in corporate and academic environments.

In addition to my training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, I have extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy and Solution-Driven Therapy, Relational Life Therapy, and Life Coaching.

As a multicultural and multi-lingual clinician, I have personal and professional experience interacting with and serving diverse populations. I have a strong foundation in culturally responsive counseling and approach my work with humility and empathy. I am also an active DBT clinical consultation team member to ensure my clients receive the best treatment possible.

My search for better ways to help clients led me to discover DBT as a scientifically proven skills-building intervention that yielded tangible results. I fell in love when I saw the amazing progress it helped clients to achieve.

But don’t get me wrong.

DBT isn’t everything that brings me joy. I love spending time with my husband, my sons, and my dog, Kadar. Visiting my family in Costa Rica brings light and joy to a life I consider worth living.

CLINICAL SPECIALIZATIONS

Cluster B personality disorders, characterized by dramatic, overly emotional, or unpredictable thinking or behavior. These include antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, histrionic personality disorder, and narcissistic personality disorder.

Emotional dysregulation due to premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) – a very severe form of premenstrual syndrome

Non-suicidal self-injurious behaviors

Severe emotional dysregulation due to:

Trauma-related issues
Attachment concerns
Family conflict
Work conflict
Clinical and event-related depression
Relationship and communication issues
Identity crises
Chronic suicidal behaviors
Anxiety
Life transitions