Angelica Cruz
Associate Therapist
AMFT #142984
As a first-generation, Latinx therapist, I know how daunting it can be to seek support in a culture where mental health is still stigmatized. With a passion for breaking down these cultural stigmas, I went and pursued a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I now bring experience of working with adults and couples in an outpatient setting as well as extensive experience working with teens in a school-based setting. As a person-centered and strengths-based therapist, I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to show up as they are. And by using an integrated approach of DBT, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing, I work to give my clients the necessary coping skills to thrive in their lives as they navigate stress, depression, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues. My passion lies in helping both individuals and couples towards a path of self-discovery and growth, and I would be honored to work with you on your healing journey.
I think the most important factor for building trust in a therapeutic relationship is…
I think being authentic as a therapist. I often was afraid to show parts of my own personality in the therapeutic room as I often had the misconception that as therapists, we needed to be professional and not show our own emotions. But the more I do this work, the more I see how important it is for clients to also know that we are human beings with emotions and unique personalities. And I think there is a way of balancing professionalism while also being our true, authentic self with clients.
My go-to self-care activity I use to unwind after a challenging day…
Going on a walk or a run! After sitting many hours a day, I try to prioritize moving my body after work. But especially after a challenging day, I like going outdoors and going for a walk or a run while listening to music. Just being outside, getting some fresh air, feeling the sun on my skin, helps boost my mood instantly and clear my head.
A fun fact that most people don’t know is…
I am truly an introvert. I think most people think I have this loud, bubbly personality and consider me an extrovert. But in reality, it takes a lot for me to feel comfortable around others to begin showing my bubbly personality. I am usually very quiet when people first meet me. And in all honesty, I prefer to spend much of my time just reading books, working out, baking, watching a great TV show/movie, or listening to music. I feel like I recharge a lot by doing these activities.
The most rewarding part of being a therapist for me is…
Getting to see the growth and progress each of my clients have made. I love getting to celebrate with my clients all of their achievements and wins. And as a therapist, there is nothing more rewarding than hearing my clients say, "I've thought a lot about what you said..." or "Thank you, that really helped me a lot" because it communicates to me that my words have resonated with them in some way and that my support has helped them heal.
I continue to grow as a therapist by…
I continue to complete different trainings and read books that help further my knowledge. But most importantly, I consult with my supervisor and my peers. I think I grow the most as a therapist by hearing from my peers and those I respect in this field of how they handled a similar situation in the past or how they would navigate a particular situation. I think consulting with my peers and my supervisor has truly pushed me to grow as a therapist.
One thing I wish clients knew about therapy before starting their journey is…
Too often I hear people say that therapy is for "crazy people." And I just wish that any potential client reading this and considering therapy knows that therapy most definitely is not just for "crazy people." Therapy is for everyone who is maybe having a tough time in their lives and needing some extra support. Therapy is a safe and non-judgemental space where you can talk to someone about things that maybe you haven't shared with others. Therapy is a space to learn more about yourself and to grow as a human individual so that you can begin thriving in your life!
Want to know more?
Angelica works with Teens, Couples, Adults and Latinx/BIPOC community. She specializes in Stress Management, Depression, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Relational Issue, Identity Exploration, Relationship Issues and Life Transitions.
Angelica has completed Level 1 training Gottman Method Couples Therapy. She is DBT trained and a Certified Grief Informed Professional. She graduated with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology with Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University.
Angelica is currently offering telehealth services within California, and in person sessions in Redondo Beach, California.