Ally Garcia, LMFT
she/her
Licensed in CA #136059
Insurances Accepted: Anthem Blue Cross, Aetna, Health Net/MHN
My Focus Areas
My Therapy Style
As a first-generation born Filipino and raised by parents that immigrated to America from the Philippines, I developed a culturally sensitive lens, and have treated clients from various backgrounds. I am passionate about providing therapy that is inclusive to many different ethnicities, view myself as an ally for the LGBTQIA+ community, and value social justice for BIPOC clients.
I sought licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist to help those afflicted with addiction, mental illness, and traumatic brain injury. I have experience working with individuals, children and adolescents, couples, and family therapy. Throughout my experience working in the mental health field, I have found that most ailments are linked back to traumatic events, which encouraged me to become an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, and help those with PTSD and/or trauma.
Education & Training
BA - Environmental Studies, University of California Santa Barbara
MA - Psychology, Pacifica Graduate Institute
Get to Know Me
Why did you become a mental health professional?
I am passionate about helping others.
What are your interests outside of work?
I enjoy horseback riding, skiing, paddle-boarding, snorkeling, traveling, and animals.
What is one thing you do daily that supports your well-being?
Exercise and laughing with loved ones.
What book have you read more than once?
I have read Cupcake Brown written by Cupcake Brown. This book is a memoir about the adversities that Ms. Brown endured at a young age, a story of perseverance and hope, and ambition. This story is inspiring because she now owns one of the most successful law firms in San Francisco.
Favorite organization/non-profit?
Community Violence Solutions in San Pablo, CA because they are passionate about mental health awareness and education the community, providing free services to victims of violence, taking a stance against human trafficking, and guiding victims persecute their perpetrators.
How do you recharge?
Nature recharges my spirit and soul. In the winter, I ski on the weekends. In the summer, I paddle-board, camp, or go to the ocean.
Do you have any pets?
I have had many many pets. My two favorite animals are my horse (Gatorade) and my dog (Harley). While I was at school, Gatorade found a way to open the security fence so that he can eat grass. Then by 3 o'clock he would find a way to sneak back into the pasture. Gatorade's hungry-escapades to find fresh grass around the neighborhood was discovered once multiple neighbors saw him opening the security fence with his nose.
