Vanessa Gonzali (she/her), M.A.
Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #119344
Supervised by Yamilka Urquiza-Mendoza, PSYD, LMFT112227
About Vanessa
Vanessa Gonzali is a Latinx bilingual (English and Spanish) therapist dedicated to supporting everyone on their unique journeys. With a deep understanding of Latinx culture, Vanessa is acutely aware of cultural expectations that influence self-confidence and identity. She recognizes the struggle many individuals face in balancing traditional values with the influences of modern Western culture.
Vanessa’s specialized therapy addresses issues related to low self-confidence rooted in cultural norms, difficulty in integrating cultural heritage with modern identity, and the impacts of stereotypes and discrimination. Her compassionate approach provides a space for clients to explore and reconcile these challenges, fostering a sense of self-worth, resilience, and a cohesive self-concept.
Vanessa also has a profound interest and experience in working with couples from diverse cultural backgrounds. She understands that intercultural relationships bring unique challenges and strengths, and she is committed to helping couples navigate these complexities to build stronger, more harmonious connections.
Specialization and Advanced Training
She has undergone extensive and advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, families, and individuals. Vanessa also has advanced training in other therapeutic techniques and modalities, including mindfulness approaches. She specializes in offering tailored therapy to meet the unique needs of her clients, ensuring that each individual receives the best possible care.
Holistic Approach
Vanessa takes a holistic and client-centered approach to therapy, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Her practice is compassionate and gentle, using mindfulness techniques to foster peace and well-being. By integrating elements such as meditation, breathing exercises, and mindful awareness, she helps clients cultivate resilience and emotional balance.
She believes that through insight, individuals can love and accept themselves, and become the authors of their own stories. Vanessa’s goal is to help clients build safety in their bodies, face their fears, and navigate life’s challenges, one breath at a time. She views healing as a beautiful, though sometimes messy, journey.
Focus on Gender Issues
Vanessa is passionate about addressing and supporting gender issues. She works closely with both women and men to navigate challenges related to confidence and cultural norms. Whether dealing with individual concerns, couple dynamics, or family relationships, her therapy sessions aim to empower clients to overcome societal pressures and achieve personal growth.
Education
Vanessa holds a Master of Arts in Marital and Family Therapy from Alliant International University – San Diego.
Personal Interests
In addition to her professional focus, Vanessa connects deeply with her body through dance (salsa and bachata) and music. She is a certified yogi and a lover of fitness and movement, with a particular interest in pilates and hiking. Vanessa is also the proud mom to two beautiful cats. She believes that through movement, individuals can enhance their connection to both their bodies and their emotions.
Contact Information
Appointments can be scheduled directly by calling or sending a text to (619) 929-0132. Vanessa can also be reached via email at [email protected].
