Gabrielle DeFriese, MA, AMFT, APCC, RYT-500
About
I am a dual-licensed associate marrage & family therapist and professional clinical counselor. I additionally hold an advanced certification as a yoga teacher, which informs my counseling approach. I feel called to work with a variety of clients with varying issues, age ranges, and cultural backgrounds. My clients range from children, adolescents, adults, and couples. Working from a holistic lens, my clients and I work collaboratively to integrate the mind, body, and spirit. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, past traumas, physical pain or illness, or seeking personal exploration and growth, we will join in our relationship to explore what lies underneath your symptoms.
I take a person-centered, integrative approach in which I gauge what works best for each client. I incorporate approaches that integrate the mind, body, and spirit by including somatic approaches, mindfulness, and deep explorations within. Our work together will focus on building coping skills as well as processing the roots of your symptoms.
I acknowledge how much effort and energy it takes just to get here to this point - reaching out for help. You hold the key to healing yourself, my intention is to guide you toward finding those answers. I will create a safe, supportive space for you to be able to freely process whatever brings you into the room.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Once a client reaches out for services, I will schedule a free brief 10-15 minute phone consultation to gain better understanding of what brings you to counseling, to answer any of your questions, and to ensure we are a good fit. If you decide to move forward from there, I will review payment and insurance options, and connect you to the practice's operations manager to review any administrative steps. Once all this is done, you and I will be in direct contact for scheduling!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I hold a bachelors of the arts in Psychology with a minor in Human Services, and a master of sciences in Counseling, both from California State University, Fullerton. Additionally, I have advanced certification as a yoga teacher (RYT-500) and am a level-1 reiki practioner. I am currently in the process of receiving a certification in trauma-informed therapy as a Certified Clincial Trauma Professional (CCTP).
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
Standard Pricing:
Individual Therapy: $150 per session
Couples Therapy: $180 per session
In-network insurances: Aetna, Cigna, Magellan.
Out of network insurance available.
How did you get started in this business?
I have felt called to become a therapist since I was in junior high, as the role of counselor has always come naturally to me. My genuine passion for therapy has only strengthened throughout my years in training. Throughout my educational career, my experience with yoga and mindfulness gave me further direction into the type of holistic therapist I currently am.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I have had experience working with a wide variety of clients, including school-based counseling (kindergarten through high school), a community center with a diverse population, an adult crisis center, and now within private practice. I serve a diverse population of different cultures and ethnic backgrounds, and ensure I place emphasis on cultural identification and implications for each of my clients. I am also an ally of the LGBTQ+ community and have had experience working with gender fluidity and various sexual orientations. I enjoy working with such a diverse population of clients.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Each day my therapy sessions surprise me, and I am left feeling full after holding space for each and every one of my clients. Whether we discuss growth and progress, or we hold space for painful and challenging emotions and experiences, each session and each client holds a special place in my heart.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Find a therapist that best fits your needs and feels like a good fit! The biggest predictor to successful outcomes in therapy is the strength of the therapeutic relationship. Make sure you find a therapist who prioritizes your safety, holds space for your vulnerability, respects your boundaries, and provides you with nonjudgmental support.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
If you're a first-timer in therapy, reflect on what your main concerns are that bring you to counseling, and what your expectations are for the counseling process. Ask a therapist what their approach is to counseling, and address any hesitations you have moving forward.
If you've been in therapy before, think about what has worked well for you in the past, and what has not worked well in previous experiences. Ask your therapist about their approach and if they are able to meet these needs for you.