Therapy for surviving—and resisting—overwhelming systems
My Approach
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, culturally responsive therapy rooted in a social justice framework.
My approach, which focuses on empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds, integrates therapeutic techniques and a commitment to addressing systemic inequalities that impact mental and emotional well-being. I work with clients to create a safe and inclusive space where they can explore their identities, process trauma, and heal in a way that honors their unique lived experiences. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and draws from a variety of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), trauma-informed care, and mindfulness, while always considering the larger societal forces at play.
I approach each client with unconditional positive regard and maintain empathetic listening and compassionate services. I believe in the importance of being authentic and real in sessions.
My Clients
My clients are often individuals navigating life transitions, identity exploration, and the lingering effects of trauma. Many come to therapy seeking relief from anxiety, depression, grief, or the emotional impact of systemic oppression. I work with people from diverse racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, especially those within the LGBTQIA+ community, who are looking for a space that is not only affirming but also deeply aware of the broader societal forces shaping their experiences. My clients value authenticity and are ready to engage in a process of healing that honors their lived experiences, their resilience, and their growth. In our work together, they can expect a collaborative, compassionate space where they are seen, heard, and supported in becoming their most empowered selves.
Treatment methods
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS) because it offers a compassionate, non-pathologizing way to understand clients’ inner experiences. By recognizing that we all have different “parts” shaped by life experiences, IFS helps clients build awareness, reduce internal conflict, and access their core Self—where healing and clarity emerge. This approach empowers clients to relate to themselves with curiosity and care, leading to deeper, more sustainable change.
Feminist
I use feminist therapy because it recognizes how social, cultural, and systemic factors shape clients’ experiences and mental health. This approach centers empowerment, helping clients understand their struggles within a broader context while reclaiming their voice and agency. By emphasizing collaboration and challenging inequities, feminist therapy supports clients in building self-trust, resilience, and meaningful change.
Gender-affirming therapy
I use gender-affirming therapy to create a space where clients’ identities are respected, validated, and supported without judgment. This approach centers each person as the expert of their own experience while acknowledging the impact of societal stigma and barriers. By affirming identity and fostering self-understanding, I help clients build resilience, authenticity, and a stronger sense of well-being.
Services
Free 15 minute phone consultation to determine if we are a good fit. Please email HeatherPaxtonLCSW@gmail or text me at 714-681-2743 to schedule a call.
Accepted Insurances
Aetna
Anthem Blue Cross California
Anthem EAP - Expanded
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Virtual Network
Carelon Behavioral Health
Cigna
Providence Health Plan
Start Healing Here
Taking the first step towards improved well-being is as easy as booking an appointment today. I’m here to support you on your journey, offering a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings safely and comfortably.
Email me at HeatherPaxtonLCSW@gmail.com or text me at 714-681-2743 to get started.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe that healing begins in spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are. I am deeply committed to providing therapy that is not only compassionate and evidence-based but also rooted in a strong social justice framework. I recognize that mental and emotional well-being cannot be separated from the broader systems of power and oppression that shape our lives, and I believe therapy must acknowledge and address these forces to be truly effective.
I believe in the power of culturally responsive and trauma-informed care. Each client’s lived experience is unique and valid, and I strive to hold space for their stories in a way that honors their identities and affirms their resilience. Intersectionality informs my lens—acknowledging how race, class, gender, sexual orientation, and other social identities intersect to impact mental health.
Therapy, to me, is a collaborative journey. I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives, and my role is to walk alongside them—offering tools, insight, and unwavering support as they move toward healing and empowerment. I approach this work with authenticity, empathy, and unconditional positive regard, fostering a therapeutic relationship that is grounded in trust and openness.
My commitment to this work is both professional and personal. I am here because I genuinely care—because I believe in the human capacity for growth and transformation, even in the face of adversity. I hold hope for my clients when they are struggling to hold it for themselves, and I believe that healing is possible for everyone.
Personal Beliefs as a Therapist
