Stephanie Gonzales, ACSW
State Licensed:
California
Languages:
English
Hi, my name is Stephanie Gonzales. I’m a clinical social worker with experience in trauma-informed behavioral health, crisis support, and working with youth, individuals, couples, and families. My approach is very relationship-centered, and I value a holistic perspective,looking at the emotional, social, environmental, and cultural factors that influence a person’s well-being.
My Approach
My therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused techniques, and Narrative Therapy. I like to meet clients where they are and work collaboratively to help them understand their thoughts, build practical skills, and identify their own strengths. Overall, my style is supportive, strengths-based, and collaborative. I aim to create a space where clients feel heard, validated, and guided toward meaningful change.
My Focus
I focus on building trust, meeting people where they’re at, and creating a space where clients feel supported and empowered.
My Communication
Style
My communication style is warm, clear, and collaborative. I focus on active listening and validating clients’ experiences while guiding them toward insight and solutions. I aim to be approachable and supportive, creating a space where clients feel heard, safe, and empowered to share openly.
My Journey
My journey as a clinical social worker has been shaped by hands on experience across a variety of settings from a group home to an adult day clinic, and a behavioral health hospital. Each experience has taught me the importance of building trust, meeting clients where they are, and supporting them through challenges.
Therapy Types
& Methods
Relationship-centered care
Holistic therapy
Talk therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Solution-Focused Therapy
Narrative Therapy
Individual, Couples, and Family Counseling
Life transitions
Resilience building
Support system strengthening
Focus Areas
Healing from stress or past trauma
Managing anger, anxiety, and overwhelming emotions
Support during tough or uncertain moments
One-on-one support for teens and adults
Strengthening communication and connection in relationships
Improving family dynamics and understanding
Grief, loss, and support through hospice journeys
Navigating life changes and major transitions
Building confidence, coping skills, and resilience
Understanding how thoughts, feelings, and actions connect
Setting small, achievable goals for positive change
Rewriting unhelpful personal stories
Education
Master of Social Work: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
License
CA: ACSW/114660