Find a therapist in San Jose, CA — covered by insurance

Hello! My name is Michelle Garza-Rodriguez, LCSW. If you are reading this, you may be at a point in your life where you are overwhelmed, struggling with past or current difficulties or symptoms, or just need someone to listen. I have close to 20 years of experience in mental health treatment, which has allowed me to meet my clients where they are at, use evidence based practice to diagnose, treat and assist in improving many patients' lives. If you are struggling with anxiety, anger, trauma, mood disorders, or life challenges, don't struggle alone. Set up an appointment and we can begin the process to help you feeling better. If you are in the process of making sure we make a good fit, we can meet for an assessment and discuss your needs. I provide sessions in both English and Spanish. At the end of the day, I want you to feel you have a good match with your therapist. I look forward to meeting with you, and working together on your treatment goals.

I am a Filipina-American Licensed Clinical Social Worker supporting adults through life transitions, identity exploration, and the stress and anxiety of everyday life. Many of my clients feel pressure to "have it all together" while feeling overwhelmed or disconnected. My role is to help you slow down, reconnect, and move forward with intention.

You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or carrying the weight of past experiences. I’m Melissa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I’m here to support you. I offer a warm, steady space where you can feel safe, heard, and in control of your healing. Using EMDR and trauma-informed CBT, we’ll work together to help you feel more grounded, build self-compassion, and create healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

I work with people ages 13 to 85. Some of the issues I specialize in are adjustment issues, self-esteem, social pressure, issues you may be dealing with that may expected or unexpected.

Life can be challenging and difficult and I am here to help you work through those challenges you are facing in your life. You may be dealing with depression or work-related issues. I strive to make this a safe environment where you are comfortable with sharing what is really going on. I am bilingual in English/Spanish. ;

Social pressure - Self esteem - Adjustment Issues - Depression - Anxiety

I grew up a carpenter’s son and followed his example in my early adulthood. By my mid 20’s I began working with others by teaching guitar, after school sports, yoga, and meditation while continuing to work as a handyman. From 2012-2014 I was fortunate enough to be able to teach High School Psychology classes that included Adolescent Social Psychology, Intro to Psychology, and Positive Psychology. For my practicum in 2012 I spent a year at James Lick High School in East San Jose, CA working with individuals and groups. From 2013-2016 I was a community-based therapist meeting clients in their homes, at their schools, or in the community. I provided individual and family support throughout Santa Clara County. This was an invaluable training that allowed me to see what people would talk about in session, since I would be in their homes with them and often see the issues firsthand. In 2017 I worked at Brightquest Treatment Center in La Mesa, CA. This was an incredible experience. I worked in this residential facility with folks with severe psychiatric disorders that often also involved addiction. The intense nature of the treatment and regular interaction with clients provided a unique learning experience and genuine connections. I learned a great deal from the residential Milieu Therapy approach.

I also had the opportunity to work as a Military Family Life Counselor, supporting military service members and their families. I feel that I learned a lot and, since I was a Navy brat, I derived a great deal of meaning being able to give back to service members in this way.

Since 2018 I have been working in private practice helping children, teens, adults, and families in person and online. I continue to work on my professional development by studying, taking trainings, consulting with colleagues, and working to practice what I learn in a balanced way.

If you feel overwhelmed by a sea of things outside of your control— facing a new health diagnosis, a deep loss or the weight of anxiety—I am here to help you anchor yourself. I am a multi-state licensed therapist (CA, MA, WA, MD, SC) offering flexible scheduling coast to coast. I am dedicated to helping you move from feeling boxed in to feeling empowered to make changes. My approach is centered on controlling the controllables. We will work together to identify the practical steps you can take today whether you are navigating through a career change or new stage in your life, or processing the deeper emotional impact of grief, trauma or chronic illness. I look forward to helping you find your footing and reclaim your sense of agency.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who values creating a space where you feel seen, safe, and supported. I bring both professional training and lived experience into the room, which helps me connect with clients on a genuine level. My background includes working with individuals, couples, and families navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I’m especially passionate about supporting clients who have felt misunderstood or silenced, and I aim to meet you with compassion, curiosity, and respect as we work together.

Most of my clients describe me as nonjudgmental and deeply empathic. I create a warm welcoming space for you to become you. Sometimes that's all some people need to heal.