Dr. Alberto Lopez, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Granada Hills, CA and if

you’re reading this, chances are you’re ready to make some meaningful changes in your life (or

at least you’re curious enough to explore it). Either way, welcome!

With over 16 years of experience under my belt, I specialize in working with adults and couples

navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD. I offer both in-person therapy and telehealth services across California, making support accessible whether you prefer a cozy office chair or the comfort of your own couch.

Before opening my private practice, I spent many years as a school-based therapist and working in community mental health. These experiences taught me a lot. I earned both my Master’s and Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Southern California. Along the way, I received advanced training in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT).

My goal is to help you manage stress, anxiety, and depression while reducing the shame, fear,

and isolation that often come with reaching out for help. Together, we’ll work toward creating

new, positive emotional experiences leading to more vitality, authenticity, connection, and

transformation in your life.

I’m here to help you slow down, sort through the noise, and reconnect with yourself and the

people who matter to you. Together, we’ll make sense of the emotional roadblocks that keep

showing up, and create healthier, more authentic ways of living and relating. Therapy with me is a collaborative process — a safe and supportive space where you can be real, be heard, and start building the change you’ve been hoping for. Healing isn’t about “getting over it” or “snapping out of it.” It’s about learning how to move through your experiences with more clarity, strength, and self-compassion. You deserve support that honors your story, your struggles, and your hopes for a better, more connected life.

If you’re ready to take that first step, I’m ready to walk alongside you.

My Specialties

I specialize in working with adults and couples who find themselves feeling stuck, whether in

painful relationship dynamics, old emotional patterns that keep repeating themselves, or the

invisible but very real weight of depression, anxiety, trauma, or PTSD. Life has a way of

throwing challenges at us when we least expect it, and sometimes, despite our best efforts to

“keep moving forward,” we find ourselves overwhelmed, disconnected, or questioning how we

even got here.

I also specialize in supporting clients through issues related to identity, cultural expectations, and intergenerational trauma, helping people bridge the gap between where they come from and who they are becoming. Whether you’re facing the slow erosion of a relationship, the sharp pain of betrayal, the anxiety that won’t let you rest, or the numbness that makes it hard to feel anything at all, I offer a compassionate and collaborative space for healing and growth.

In my work, I help individuals and couples make sense of their emotional experiences, heal from past wounds, and find new ways of relating to themselves and others. Many of the clients I work with struggle with self-doubt, difficulty managing overwhelming emotions, fear of vulnerability, and feeling isolated even when surrounded by others. Some are carrying old stories of hurt from childhood or previous relationships; others are navigating major life transitions, career changes, parenthood, loss, or the slow, quiet buildup of everyday stress that eventually becomes too heavy to ignore.

Together, we’ll uncover the patterns that are no longer serving you, build emotional resilience,

and create new pathways toward deeper connection, greater self-awareness, and a more

meaningful, fulfilling life. You don’t have to stay stuck. Healing is possible and it often begins

with the simple, courageous act of reaching out.

Who is my ideal client

As a Latino male therapist, I work best with adults and couples who are ready to face life’s

challenges with honesty, courage, and a willingness to grow, even if they’re not quite sure where to start. My ideal client is someone who’s ready to lean into the vulnerability that comes with real healing. Even if they’re nervous about opening up, they trust that therapy can be a powerful step toward growth. They’re committed to self-reflection and are willing to explore how their lif experiences shape their story.

My ideal client is looking for a therapist who not only listens but also brings both professional

expertise and personal lived experience into the work. Many of my clients are hardworking

individuals who have spent years carrying heavy responsibilities for their families, careers, and

communities — often putting their own emotional needs last. They might be dealing with

depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, or relationship struggles, but have been taught to “push through,” “stay strong,” or handle it alone.” Sound familiar?

I especially connect with clients who want a therapist who understands the complex realities of culture, family expectations, masculinity, and the unspoken emotional weight that often comes with them. Whether you’re wrestling with feeling stuck in your relationships, managing the silent pressure to succeed, navigating identity struggles, or healing from past hurts that you haven’t had space to fully explore, you’ll find a judgment-free space here to show up as you are.

What is it like to work with me?

When you step into therapy with me, you’ll find a space where compassion, understanding, and genuine care are at the center of our work. I start by meeting you exactly where you are, no pressure, no judgment, just a deep respect for your pace, your story, and your unique journey. I listen closely, not just to your words, but to what’s beneath them, always validating and normalizing your emotions so you feel seen, heard, and supported. Every session is shaped around providing a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can be your full, authentic self.

My approach is thoughtful and intentional. I prepare for each session by reviewing your

progress, following up on past conversations, and staying attuned to your goals. I draw from

evidence-based practices like Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and

Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), blending clinical expertise with a deeply

relational, human approach.

I believe in the power of psychoeducation, helping you understand how your emotions, thoughts, behaviors are interconnected. I often offer suggestions, role-play strategies, model new skills, and provide “homework” that supports your growth between sessions. Because I genuinely care about your progress, I continually invest in professional training, individual supervision, and group consultation to keep my skills sharp and relevant.

You’ll notice that I bring a soft, calm presence into the room, using a gentle tone of voice, steady eye contact, and an empathic way of being. I put myself in your shoes and ask, “What would want from my therapist in this moment?” That deep empathy guides how I show up for you, always recognizing your efforts, your emotions, and your milestones, both big and small.

Together, we’ll work to build emotional awareness, strengthen resilience, and create the change you’re seeking, all at a pace that honors you.

What might a client experience during treatment with you?

When you work with me, you can expect to feel genuinely heard, seen, and understood,

sometimes for the very first time in a long time. I create a space where your feelings are not only welcomed but validated. You’ll experience a balance between deep emotional attunement and gentle, thoughtful challenges designed to help you grow. I’m here to walk beside you and gently pushing you out of old comfort zones (with compassion, not judgment). Think of it as emotional strength training. I blend a relational, emotionally focused approach with structured, solution-focused strategies so that our conversations lead to real, tangible progress. We’ll talk about the deeper emotions and patterns that shape your life, while also setting clear goals and practical steps to help you move toward the changes you want to see.

If you’re coming in as a couple, you’ll experience a space where both partners are supported,

where we get beneath the surface arguments and work toward creating more secure emotional bonds. You’ll learn how to really hear each other, communicate more openly (yes, even about the tough stuff), and build stronger trust and connection. And don’t worry, I know couples therapy can feel intimidating at first. I’ll help keep the process focused, supportive, and centered on creating real, meaningful change.

Therapy with me is about healing and growing at your own pace, with plenty of encouragement, real strategies, and the belief that you already have more strength inside you than you probably realize.

My Professional Training and Approach

Because I genuinely care about my clients’ growth and well-being, I am committed to

continually investing in my professional development. I actively participate in individual

supervision, group consultation, and ongoing training to ensure that the support I provide is both effective and up to date with the latest research and best practices. In addition to my specialties, I have advanced training and skills in several evidence-based

approaches, including:

· Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) – currently in the process of

certification

· Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) – currently completing Core Skills Training

· Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

· Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

· Managing and Adapting Practices (MAP)

· Depression Treatment Quality Improvement Intervention (DTQI)

· Crisis Oriented Recovery Services (CORS)

· Seeking Safety — an evidence-based model for trauma and addiction recovery

I am also trained and certified to conduct Immigration Evaluations, providing thorough,

compassionate assessments for individuals navigating immigration-related challenges.

My approach is to integrate these skills thoughtfully, tailoring each session to meet clients’

unique needs. Whether we are working through trauma, strengthening your relationships, or

building emotional resilience, my goal is always to provide a safe, supportive space where real

healing and transformation can happen.