In-Person in San Diego, CA 92037
Online in California
Dedicated Associate Marriage and Family Therapist committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to diverse populations. Skilled in evidence-based interventions, crisis management, and culturally responsive practice. Passionate about fostering supportive environments that promote growth, resilience, and emotional well-being. Schedule a FREE consultation call today if I sound like the right fit for you!
Client Focus
Session Format: Family, Individual sessions.
Age Specialty: Children, Teen, Young Adult
Demographic Expertise: Hispanic / Latino, LGBTQ+, Women clients.
Treatment Approach
- Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) Helps people accept difficult thoughts and feelings instead of fighting them, while committing to actions that reflect their values. It blends mindfulness with practical behavior strategies.
- Art Therapy Uses creative activities like drawing, painting, or sculpture as a way to express emotions. It is especially helpful when words are hard to find.
- Behavioral Therapy Uses learning techniques like reinforcement and practice to change unwanted behaviors. It is often applied to phobias, anxiety, and habits.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) One of the most widely used approaches, CBT helps people identify unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier patterns. It is effective for anxiety, depression, and many other concerns.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Combines CBT with mindfulness to help regulate emotions, tolerate stress, and build stronger relationships. Originally designed for borderline personality disorder, it’s now used more broadly.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI) A collaborative, client-centered approach that strengthens motivation for change. It is especially effective for addictions and health behaviors.
- Music Therapy Uses music listening, songwriting, or rhythm exercises to support healing. It is effective for stress, emotional expression, and cognitive challenges.
- Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Helps parents strengthen their bond with their child while learning effective strategies to manage challenging behaviors. Through live coaching, parents practice positive communication, set clear boundaries, and build a more supportive, nurturing home environment.
- Play Therapy Uses toys, games, and creative play to help children express emotions. It is especially useful when children can’t fully verbalize their feelings.
- Sandplay Therapy Uses sand trays and miniature figures to allow symbolic expression. It is especially helpful for children and trauma survivors.
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) Focuses on solutions and future goals rather than past problems. It is practical, short-term, and goal-driven.
- Somatic Therapy Helps clients notice how emotions are stored in the body. It uses breath, movement, and awareness for healing trauma and stress.
Approach Description: My therapeutic approach is integrative and tailored to the unique needs of each client. I draw from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to support growth and lasting change. I also incorporate creative and experiential approaches — including Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Sandplay — to help children and young adults express themselves in ways that words sometimes cannot.
I believe healing happens through both the mind and body, so I integrate Somatic Therapy and mindfulness practices to build awareness, resilience, and emotional regulation. Motivational Interviewing further supports clients in discovering their inner strengths and moving toward meaningful goals. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where clients feel seen and empowered as they learn to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.
Fees & Insurance
Fees
- Average Session Fee $175
- Affordable sliding scale therapy: apply if you may be eligible.
- I believe therapy should be accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances. I offer a limited number of sliding scale spots to individuals and families who may need reduced rates, including students, young adults, and those experiencing financial hardship. Sliding scale fees are based on income and can be discussed during our initial consultation to ensure therapy is both supportive and affordable. My goal is to make sure cost is never a barrier to receiving care.
- Accepts Insurance
- UnitedHealth Care
Education & Credentials
Madelyn Alvarez AMFT
- Female
- License # 151422
- Licensed in CA
- Practicing Since 2024
Education: I completed my undergraduate studies at San Diego State University and earned my Masters at Point Loma Nazarene University. I hold a 200-hour yoga teacher certification, which allows me to integrate mindfulness and mind-body practices into my therapeutic work.
Madelyn Alvarez Practice Details
Therapy Sessions
- Available In-Person in San Diego, CA 92037
- Available Online for residents of California
- Online Therapy Details: Simple Practice
Welcome to my practice in the heart of La Jolla. I’ve created a calming space designed to help you feel comfortable and supported from the moment you walk in. Our waiting area offers a warm and inviting atmosphere.
I specialize in working with children, teens, and young adults who are learning to navigate life’s challenges. Whether it’s managing anxiety, coping with big emotions, building self-esteem, or finding their voice, I provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore who they are and what they need. I blend talk therapy, play and art-based approaches, and mindfulness practices to meet each client where they’re at. Together, we focus on developing coping skills, improving communication, and building resilience for the road ahead.
My goal is to create a space where young people and their families feel understood and empowered, knowing they don’t have to face life’s difficulties alone.