About Me
Hi, I’m Sandra Alcantar, an LCSW providing therapy in both English and Spanish. Life is an incredibly complex experience, and I’m here to help you navigate it.
As the daughter of immigrants, a member of a large blended family, and a first-generation college graduate, my lived experiences have shaped who I am and my passion for this work. Having experienced the impact of therapy in my own life, I understand how meaningful it can be to have someone who listens, supports you, and reminds you that you don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. I hope to pay that forward by helping others feel supported, recognize their strengths, and thrive in the areas where they may be struggling.
Growing up Hispanic, I also understand how mental health stigma can make it difficult to seek support. I am passionate about changing that narrative and making conversations about mental health feel more normal, accessible, and accepted. My approach is simple: I meet you where you are, create a safe space where you feel heard without judgment, and offer compassionate, honest support as you navigate your own journey.
My experience working with children and families in nonprofit settings, supporting clients of all ages in private practice, and working with individuals experiencing severe mental health challenges in correctional settings has taught me that everyone’s journey is different. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, postpartum challenges, mood disorders, divorce, or other life transitions, I believe growth begins with feeling understood and supported. Therapy is a space to build self-awareness, recognize your strengths, and develop tools to navigate life with greater confidence. My goal is to meet you where you are and support you in creating meaningful change at your own pace. Growth doesn’t have to happen all at once; sometimes, it starts with simply feeling less alone.
Our First Conversation
Together, we’ll establish realistic goals and identify an approach that best supports your needs. I check in regularly about current challenges and recognize that basic needs and life circumstances can affect our ability to make progress. I strive to be supportive, solution-focused, and honest. I’ll meet you with compassion while also gently challenging you when needed, because meaningful growth sometimes means looking at things from a different perspective. My goal is to help you develop practical tools, build on your strengths, and make progress toward the changes that matter most to you.
What You Can Count On From Me
I bring a balance of compassion, honesty, and a practical, solution-focused approach to therapy. My experience working with diverse individuals and families has taught me that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. I strive to create a space where clients feel understood, supported, and comfortable being themselves, while also offering honest feedback that encourages growth. Having experienced the benefits of therapy myself, I understand the value of feeling heard and empowered. My goal is to make therapy approachable, collaborative, and meaningful, helping clients recognize their strengths and navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence.
Who I’m Here For
I enjoy working with individuals and families across different stages of life who may be navigating anxiety, mood disorders, postpartum challenges, relationship difficulties, divorce, or major life transitions. I am especially passionate about supporting those who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward. My experience working with children, families, and adults from diverse backgrounds has shaped my understanding that everyone’s needs and experiences are unique. I welcome clients who are ready to better understand themselves, develop practical coping skills, strengthen relationships, and work toward meaningful change. Whether you are new to therapy or returning to continue your growth, my goal is to provide a supportive, honest, and judgment-free space where you feel empowered to navigate life’s challenges and recognize your potential.
My Therapeutic Approach
My approach to therapy is collaborative, goal-oriented, and grounded in building a trusting relationship. In our first few sessions, we’ll take time to get to know one another, explore what brings you to therapy, and identify what you hope to gain from the process. I want you to feel comfortable asking questions and getting a sense of who I am, because I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and involved in your care.
Treatment Methods
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps you identify thought patterns that contribute to anxiety, depression, and stress — then build skills to interrupt and change them. Highly effective and well-researched.
Person/Client-Centered Counseling
An evidence-informed therapeutic approach used by our providers. Ask your therapist how they integrate this method into your work together.
Note: Each session is 60 minutes, whether it’s your first consult or an ongoing visit.
Age Preferences
Children (6-12)Adolescents (13-17)Middle Adulthood (30-64)
Clinical Focus
AnxietyDepressionFamily ConflictRelationship IssuesAdjustment IssuesCoping SkillsWomen's IssuesSelf Esteem
Education & Training
- Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- California National Certified Correctional Health Professional (NCCHP)
- Clinical Supervisor Training Completed
Location
Sessions are offered via secure video. Available statewide across California.
