Hello, I’m Tessa!
I have many identities that I feel deeply connected to…to name a few:
biracial (Mexican American and white) feminist
partner & friend
middle child & sister
child of LGBTQ parent
system disruptor
nature lover & food enthusiast
and of course…therapist
Empathy was a skill I mastered at a young age, rubbing my brother’s back on the school bus every morning as he would cry from being separated from my mom, or slipping notes under my sister’s door as she would “cool off” in her room. Though I find that empathy is my superpower, at times, I felt like I was neglecting my own needs and beliefs to support those around me. I was avoiding conflict and rupture, and overcompensating with empathy.
Background & Education
After I graduated from California Polytechnic University San Luis Obispo with a Bachelors of Science in Child Development and Psychology, I decided I needed to deeply connect with myself, prioritize my own needs, and re-discover myself in an intimate way. I found a program in Catalonia, Spain and taught English to children ages 3-16 years old and left California, my only home since birth. Amongst discomfort, anxiety, and loneliness - but also adventure, independence, and joy- I not only rediscovered myself, but also reconnected with Latin culture, a fragmented part of my own family of origin. Returning home from Spain, I received my Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at San Diego State University. I’ve been in my helping profession since 2018.
Take away
I find that cultural healing and reconnection has been an important part of my own journey, and it is important for me to integrate that into my work. As a therapist, I weave my lived experiences into my practice, offering understanding and compassion rooted in shared humanity. I am committed to continually evolving, disrupting harmful patterns, and nurturing intimate and sacred relationships with those around me.
Relationships have the power to wound us, but they also have the power to deeply heal us. Whether we get the chance to cross paths or not, I hope you find a deep sense of peace and connection.
Expertise and Specialties
I have extensive experience working with diverse communities including:
LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, first generation and multiracial individuals
Adoption, foster/resource families, blended families, and single parents
Individuals living with chronic illness or disabilities
Individuals in non-monogamous or open relationships
I specialize in supporting individuals navigating:
Mental Health Challenges: Anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, stress and trauma
Relationships and Family Dynamics: Addiction impacted, adoption, codependency, divorce, relationship difficulties, family conflict, grief and loss, intergenerational trauma, and parenting stress.
Educational challenges and life transitions: ADHD, burnout, career changes, learning disabilities, moving, and starting college/living away from home for the first time.
Self-Esteem and Identity-Related Challenges: Experiences of discrimination, LGBTQ+, racial trauma, values work, and women’s issues