She is positive encouraging and offers resourceful ideas. She is helping me to move forward in a positive way.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Marcela
See what other clients sayAccepted insurance & self-pay
About Marcela
Marcela Gonzalez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the medical and mental health fields. She's passionate about helping individuals find their true, wonderful selves and live more fulfilling lives. She has helped individuals decrease their depression and anxiety symptoms by helping them become more self-aware, allowing them to identify their feelings and emotions. Marcela provides a safe space for her clients to discuss their traumas, grief, relationship issues, and important life transitions. Marcela completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Cal State Long Beach.
Marcela is compassionate, empathetic, and understanding, and she challenges her clients in a loving way to help them gain better control of their emotions. Marcela utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy
All of us experience life in different ways, and at times we feel as though we're facing challenges alone. Marcela is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspectives and techniques that allow you to cope with whatever you may be struggling with. If you are ready to do the work, schedule an appointment with her today!

"I understand the unique challenges that come with being a Latina woman."
What clients say
These testimonials are from real clients who completed a satisfaction survey after their sessions and agreed to share their feedback. Results may vary.
I appreciate and enjoy Marcela's insight, endless encouragement, and willingness to reiterate my thoughts for better understanding but to also to look deeper at what I'm meaning. S....
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Marcela
She is positive encouraging and offers resourceful ideas. She is helping me to move forward in a positive way.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Marcela
Get to know Marcela
Why did you decide to become a counselor?
As a social worker I have worn many different hats but always with the intention to empower my clients to find their true wonderful self. When I decided to become a mental health therapist, I quickly realized the major impact mental health therapy can have on people and fell in love with it. I really enjoy being part of my client's healing journey.
What types of clients do you work with best?
Most of my experience has been working with adults 18 plus. I don't work best with any particular client, I work best with all my clients. It really depends on the client how vulnerable and honest they are willing to be during therapy in order to become more self-aware and gain the benefits of mental health therapy.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I'm excited to work with all my clients because they're all unique.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
I wish all clients knew that they have the power to control and manage their emotions. I wish they knew how important it is to give themselves grace and love.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I chose to practice at Thriveworks because of the ability it provides to work with a variety of clients and the flexibility.
What inspires you?
My family and friends inspire me to continue to reach for my goals and dreams. People helping others inspires me, as well as individuals who are willing to set their fears aside.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
Clients can expect to find a safe space to discuss their symptoms, concerns and thoughts.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
During the first session i would like to learn as much as i can about my clients, get to know each other and learn about my client's goals for therapy. I also discuss the limits of confidentiality and the frequency of sessions.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first counseling session?
I would like them to know that there's no need to feel anxious or nervous about their first session. I'm a down to earth and my priority is to make them feel comfortable and safe.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
On my time off I'm usually with friends, family and my dogs.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
One thing that defines me is my ability to choose love and happiness and to forgive myself when I make a "mistake".
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 13 years
- Graduating institute
- California State Long Beach
- Graduating degree
- Masters
