Micaela Magazzu-Alaman, MA, LMFT
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both California (LMFT #120272) and Colorado (MFT.0002160), I am committed to providing high-quality therapy services. My journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in sociology from San Diego State University, followed by a year of experience in a residential treatment facility for adults and transitional-aged youth struggling with severe mental illness and substance use disorders.
My education continued at Alliant International University, where I earned a Master’s degree in Couple and Family Therapy in 2016. Throughout my training, I gained experience in various clinical settings, including outpatient clinics for children with psychiatric concerns, intensive outpatient treatment for adults with substance use disorders, and private practices that focus on comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for both adults and teens. I also have extensive experience working with families involved in the Child Welfare System.
In addition to my formal training in DBT and play therapy, I have specialized training in treating Body-Focused-Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), such as hair-pulling and skin-picking. Currently, I am completing my doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (Doctor of Psychology- PsyD) at the California School of Professional Psychology – Alliant International University.
Therapeutic Approach
As a therapist, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment that promotes personal growth. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and culturally sensitive, with an emphasis on providing individualized care and maintaining a non-judgmental space. In my practice, I utilize a systemic perspective, taking into consideration the whole family in treatment. As a collaborative clinician, I help clients leverage their existing resources while developing new skills to overcome challenges.
I use a variety of evidence-based approaches to help clients achieve their goals and address their concerns. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are two approaches that can be helpful for clients struggling with anxiety, depression, and body-focused repetitive behaviors such as hair pulling or skin-picking. In CBT, clients learn to identify and challenge negative thoughts that contribute to their emotional distress, while DBT focuses on developing positive coping strategies and mindfulness practices to manage intense emotions.
Feminist family therapy is an approach that takes into account the impact of gender, power, and social justice issues on individuals and families. This approach can help clients navigate life transitions, grief, and relationship challenges by exploring and challenging traditional gender roles and societal expectations.
Play therapy is a form of therapy used for younger clients that allows them to express themselves and work through emotions and experiences in a fun, safe, and supportive environment. Through play, children can develop coping strategies, build resilience, and develop social skills.
These approaches can be effective for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and behavioral issues.
Professional Licenses, Certifications & Affiliations:
- California Licensed Marriage Family Therapist LMFT (LMFT #120272)
- Colorado Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT.0002160)
- California Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (CAMFT) Professional Member
- 40-Hour Domestic Violence Counselor Certification – §1037.1(a)(1)
- Former Doctoral Apprentice Reviewer for the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy (JMFT)
- Former Adjunct Faculty at Alliant International University, co-teaching Couple and
Family Therapy Master’s level courses for doctoral internship
Specialized Training:
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Foundational Training
- Body-Focused-Repetitive Behavior Training – Graduate of the TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors Virtual Professional Training Institute
- Play Therapy Courses at the University of California – San Diego and Alliant International University
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) Training
- Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) – Knowledgeable Professional – completed Dr. Elaine Aron’s training for providers
Hours
Mon – Thurs: By appointment only
Fri – Sun: Closed
325 W Washington St.
Suite 2 #3010
San Diego, CA 92103-1946
Contact
(619) 839-9397
info@therapywithmicaela.com