About Kelly Ramirez

What’s the first session like with me?

Hello, my name is Kelly and my pronouns are she/her. As a therapist, I am committed in empowering you to live your best life, find meaning in your relationships and support you in meeting your desired goals.

If you are seeking services for the first time, it can be a little scary not knowing what someone might ask of you, or how you’ll be able to open up to someone you have never met before.

During our first session, my goal is for you to feel comfortable in sharing what you are ready to disclose and that you feel that you are in a safe space, free of judgement.

You’ll hear me asking about why you’re seeking services. what your day/routine looks like, your friend/family relationships, and how you feel about enrolling in services. You can also ask me questions to make sure I am the right fit for you. I believe that the client-therapist relationship is the main foundation to feeling comfortable in discussing your life story and any concerns.

Our time together

As we continue to work together, my goal is for you to be able to understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. There might be some sessions in which emotions become more difficult or intense, and that is normal. I will be there with you to assist in processing those emotions and thoughts.

I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, which means looking at not just what you are currently going through, but also taking into consideration your past experiences, environment, relationships, upbringing, and the ways you view yourself and those around you. Think of it as connecting puzzle pieces to gain a better understanding of who you are and how we can make your desired changes together.

I will encourage you to share any concerns, or questions that have come up for you during our sessions. I am open to feedback and want to make sure that you are getting what you need from our time together.

Little by little, you’ll start noticing your mood and behaviors shift, and will feel more comfortable sharing during our sessions. At one point you might even ask if you still need to continue in services, and that is a conversation we can have together.

The therapeutic process looks different for everyone, and I am here to support you in your journey. Your time in therapy might be short term, or long term, but I will be here with you, whether in person or through video. I promise we’ll go at your pace.

About Kelly Ramirez (LCSW)

Therapy was not something that was discussed at home, and the majority of the time the solutions that were given included “go for a walk, stop being lazy, just get it done”.

I was raised in an immigrant Mexican household, and my parents always reminded me of how my role as the eldest daughter was to help others and to not share my difficulties with anyone outside of the family.

At the time, I didn’t realize that I was experiencing anxiety due to the constant reminders and demands that were placed upon me. I thought that what I was experiencing was normal and never thought about reaching out for help, much less consider talking to someone about my struggles as the eldest daughter in an immigrant household.

You could say that the value of helping others followed me into undergrad. Initially I wanted to become a veterinarian, but that goal changed when I was given the opportunity to volunteer as an Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) peer advisor. I was able to provide support to other first-generation college students and noticed the difference in being able to relate to someone.

As a first generation college student, I didn’t know who I could go to or what resources were available when I started. I found myself struggling in asking for help or making sure that I was on the right track. After becoming a peer advisor, I was able to be that person for other first generation students and found myself wanting to do more.

I slowly began to understand and accept that there is nothing wrong in seeking help from others and that we can all benefit from being able to share our stories with those around us.

I am a big believer of human connection and relationships as building blocks in working towards discussing more difficult topics and feeling understood by your therapist.

Education and Training

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in psychology from UC Santa Barbara and I went on to graduate with my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California (USC). Since graduating, I have been working in Mental Health clinics working with kids and adults.

As a mental health provider, I support children and their families in processing trauma, increasing their communication, and managing their emotions.

My training includes TF-CBT (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy), MAP (managing and adapting practices), and Seeking Safety. My grad school internships gave me the opportunity to work with different ages, ranging from school aged children to elders. I have experience working in depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, social skills, and life transitions.

I am fluent in Spanish. Hablo y proveo servicios en español!

A look into my personal life

I love to spend time with my family, friends, and my 2 dogs, Echo and Achilles. I like to collect pens, stationary, and stickers and I always tell myself that I’ll use them (that day has yet to come). I enjoy going on walks, visiting different cafes, and reading psychological thrillers.

You can find me at a concert (K-pop concerts the majority of the time) or binge-watching anime. Get ready for me to ask what kind of music you listen to and what kinds of shows/movies you like to watch as we get to know each other.

Let me help you find a better YOU!

I believe that you too can heal, thrive, and become a happier, healthier you.

Call or text 818.945.9075 for a 20-minute consultation.