Discovering the truth about ourselves is a lifetime’s work, but it’s worth the effort.
- Fred Rogers
Hello, I’m Iliana (she/her/hers) and I am an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist. I have a Bachelor’s in Sociology from UCLA and a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Los Angeles. I am a Certified Community Resiliency Model (CRM®) Teacher and a Certified Safe Conversations Workshop Leader. Both are wonderful models that teach accessible skills to regulate the nervous system and to deepen communication with empathy and presence.
I love working with...
I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and women who are navigating issues related to self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, neurodiversity, identity, life transitions, burnout, and environmental stressors. I also enjoy working with couples to understand that “it’s not about what it’s about,” but instead to get past the story, recognize the patterns that keep them stuck, and learn to communicate from an open heart, free of judgment.
Some of my favorite approaches include...
I use an eclectic, integrated, and holistic approach with my clients depending on their goals and needs. I operate from a person-centered, systems, and attachment-based framework while holding a deep understanding of how trauma and stress impact the nervous system and brain. I draw from a range of modalities — CRM/TRM, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, EFT, Imago techniques, and Mindfulness practices.
How I help...
My nature is caring, calm, and playful. My style as a therapist is gentle, attuned, and collaborative. I am intentional in creating a safe and trusting atmosphere so a client feels heard and seen, which allows for growth and connection to happen. I have found my trauma-informed, resiliency-informed certification and continued training benefits my clients immensely as they find the concepts and wellness skills to be accessible, simple, and transformative.
I believe...
...that we all have the capacity to heal, to grow, and to find joy and meaning in life regardless of our circumstances. I believe in the power of resilience and connection.
What it's like in session with me
I believe my calm demeanor and slow pace creates an environment of comfort and trust. I create a space for curiosity and exploration, and allow for natural humor and humanness to emerge. I believe you are the expert in your life and have everything you need within. My role is that of a guide on your journey of self-discovery and healing.