I’m Dr. Stephanie Mendoza (she/her/ella)

I'm a bilingual professional with a passion for guiding women/femmes on transformative journeys of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. Born and raised in Los Angeles, CA as a first-generation Mexican-American and enriched by 14 years of living and studying on the island of Puerto Rico, my journey has been a tapestry of diverse experiences that have shaped my approach to therapy.

While obtaining my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Universidad Carlos Albizu in San Juan, I had the opportunity to work closely with various communities, including women, LGBTQ+ folks, BIPOC communities, and individuals impacted by trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, and phase of life issues. I also embarked on a transformative journey at Children's Institute, Inc. in Los Angeles, where I worked with children, adolescents, and their families and specialized in TF-CBT training, equipping me with invaluable skills in trauma-focused therapy.

After completion of my doctoral degree, I received postdoctoral training in VA Caribbean Healthcare in San Juan, within the Women Veterans Integrative Mental Health area of emphasis. My training equipped me with specialized experience in evidence-based models with a focus on women's health. I honed my skills in integrating holistic approaches, exploring the mind-body connection to foster comprehensive healing, delving into the impact of intergenerational trauma, and empowering individuals to break free from these cycles & reclaiming resilience.

With a firm belief in the power of culturally sensitive and holistic approaches to healing, I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where individuals can explore difficult topics, break free from unhelpful patterns, and reconnect with their inner selves.

Whether you're a Latina navigating the complexities of intergenerational trauma or an LGBTQ+ individual seeking to heal and reclaim your authentic identity, you've found a compassionate companion on your journey to self-discovery and healing.

Let's embark on this journey together, honoring your roots, nurturing your spirit, and rewriting your story with resilience and courage.

My Approach

I understand the importance of choosing the right therapist to guide you on your journey to self-discovery and healing. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a deep commitment to your well-being. I believe that healing is a holistic process that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit, and I am dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your innermost thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

By integrating evidence-based techniques with mindfulness practices, cultural responsiveness, and trauma-informed care, I strive to empower you to unlock your inner resilience and strengths, navigate life's challenges with confidence, and embark on a path of growth and transformation.

With me accompanying you on your journey, you can expect compassionate support, personalized guidance, and a collaborative partnership focused on helping you thrive.

Holistic Healing

My approach prioritizes holistic healing, addressing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit by integrating evidence-based techniques with mindfulness practices and somatic awareness. We work together to nurture overall well-being and promote lasting transformation.

Trauma-Informed

My work is grounded in trauma-informed care, recognizing the impact of past traumas on present experiences. Recognizing the importance of acknowledging, remembering, and reckoning with our individual and collective past, we will explore how historical and intergenerational traumas shape our lives. Together, we foster a sense of safety and empowerment to support healing and reclaiming our narratives, while contributing to the collective healing process.

Culturally Responsive

I believe in the importance of culturally responsive therapy, honoring our unique cultural background and lived experiences. We will create a safe space to explore cultural identity, values, and beliefs, fostering a deeper understanding of how these factors shape our mental health journey.

Strength-Based

With a strength-based approach, we will focus on empowering and harnessing inner resilience & strengths to overcome challenges. Through collaborative goal-setting and skill-building exercises, we cultivate a sense of empowerment, agency, and self-efficacy in navigating life's obstacles.