MARYANN R. VALDES Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
A Caring, Compassionate Professional Who Goes the Extra Mile for Her Clients.
A Message from MaryAnn
Seeking therapy is a courageous and healthy form of self-care. If you have been thinking, "Maybe it's time to talk with someone," I encourage you to validate your intuition and take that first step, because you are worth it. I believe that we are all experts on ourselves, possessing an innate power source that allows us to navigate life's issues. However, when emotions become dysregulated and life begins to feel unmanageable, the effects can deeply impact your overall well-being. Whatever challenges you are currently facing, you do not have to work through them alone.
As a dedicated therapist, I bring years of specialized experience to my practice, particularly in working with clients and their families who are struggling with substance use, dual diagnoses, and complex life transitions. I embrace a holistic perspective, providing individualized, collaborative care that utilizes a strength-based approach and supportive therapeutic modalities. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, codependency, marital conflict, or trauma, we will tailor our work to directly address your unique circumstances and goals.
I work with individuals, couples, and families across a wide spectrum of age groups—from adults to elders—as well as diverse cultural backgrounds and sexual orientations. As a proud ally to the LGBTQ+ community, I ensure that my practice is an affirming, welcoming environment for all. In our sessions, my primary goal is to provide an empathetic and supportive space where you feel completely safe, respected, and truly heard without judgment. Collaboratively, we will explore practical solutions, process difficult emotions, and develop coping strategies that are conducive to the positive outcomes you desire for your life, your self-esteem, and your relationships.
Licenses and Certifications
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT): State of Hawaii (License ID: HI 703)
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT): State of California (License ID: 122627)
Clinical Fellow: American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
Experience
Outpatient & Addiction Therapy: Extensive background working in dual diagnosis and substance use treatment centers, including Southern California Alcohol and Drug Programs, Hope By The Sea, and BAART Programs.
Child, Youth, and Family Counseling: Strong history of providing family systems therapy and youth interventions, with previous roles at Helpline Youth Counseling and BISKIDS Children's Program.
Private Practice: Years of experience providing holistic, client-centered care for individuals, couples, and families navigating relational conflict and life transitions.
Education and Affiliations
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology: Antioch University Los Angeles
Certificate in Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling: East Los Angeles College
Clinical Fellow: American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
Skills
Individual, Couples, and Family Psychotherapy: Compassionate, holistic care utilizing a client-strength-based approach.
Addiction & Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Expertise in supporting individuals and families navigating substance use disorders alongside mental health conditions.
Evidence-Based Modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
Culturally Sensitive & LGBTQ+ Affirming Care: Safe, collaborative treatment tailored to diverse cultural backgrounds and sexual orientations.
Populations Served
Adults & Elders (65+): Compassionate support for navigating life transitions, anxiety, trauma, and depression.
Couples & Families: Treatment for relational issues, codependency, marital conflict, divorce, and parenting challenges.
LGBTQ+ Community: Affirming and supportive care for bisexual, lesbian, and gay-allied individuals.
Individuals in Recovery: Specialized counseling for those dealing with substance use, anger management, and dual diagnoses.