Carissa

My Story

Clients often come to my practice having experienced an inability to communicate their feelings due to feeling stuck when trying to figure things out. My clients also say they’ve had a difficult time socializing or feeling connected to others, and do not know how to cope. I aim to help clients enhance their self-confidence that can be key to developing and identifying their own strengths and personal goals to form strong, positive relationships. Clients can come to a session feeling timid and may find relief after the first session as they gain a sense of understanding themselves and those around them. Throughout my time as a therapist, I have understood that positive change within clients occurs when they are willing to take steps, no matter the size, toward each goal made. 

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I work with clients during each therapy session to help them understand ways in which their past may influence the present. I believe our relationships with our parents or caregivers, within childhood, influence the ways in which we form connections with friends and other family members. Early childhood connections, attachments or lack thereof, can help provide meaning why such patterns exist in our current relationships. When working with clients that struggle with substance use, I help them understand the importance of coping skills as well as understanding the underlying problem that may have triggered the addiction. Overall, my experience involves helping each client develop a better understanding of themselves through their own past, thought patterns, and behavior. 

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 My commitment to serving adolescents is deeply rooted in my understanding of the unique challenges they face, particularly when dealing with family dynamics and emotional upheaval. Witnessing the effects of substance abuse and family discord at a young age highlighted the importance of support and positive community influences in overcoming adversity. This experience instilled in me a profound awareness of the resilience and strength that can emerge from such situations. I am passionate about providing the necessary support for children and adolescents to process their emotions and identify their strengths. My goal is to help them navigate challenges and realize their full potential. As a mental health professional, I am dedicated to being the bridge that supports adolescents in achieving their goals, despite any obstacles they may encounter. 

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My legal name is Carissa J. Gaytan. I am a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #136616 working at Reconnect Marriage and Family Counseling and under the supervision of Cymone Damon Sams, LMFT#127094.

Information
about Fees and Insurance

Individual Psychotherapy: $125

Couple/Family Therapy: $150

I can offer superbills for clients that I am not in-network for and can guide you through this process for partial reimbursement. I do have sliding scale (a reduced rate) for those who need it, but space is limited. 

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I am accepting the following insurance: ​

• Aetna

• Optum/United Healthcare

If you wish to utilize your insurance, please use this link to verify insurance as you're scheduling your consultation: Insurance Verification

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