Maricela Cordova, LCSW

Maricela’s goal is for her clients to leave with a little more hope, a little more happiness, and a little more strength.

Maricela’s decision to become a therapist was shaped by a life-changing experience during her undergraduate years that led her to therapy herself. Having sat with feelings of shame and guilt, she understands how isolating emotional pain can feel. This lived experience fuels her passion for walking alongside others as they heal. Maricela believes therapy does not rewrite the past, but through healing, it can create a future that feels healthier, more hopeful, and more fulfilling.

Her professional journey began in graduate school with a year-long internship in an elementary school, followed by work at a women and family mental health nonprofit supporting mothers and children while collaborating with county case workers. She later worked in a residential crisis house, helping adults experiencing acute mental health symptoms, including unhoused individuals, in collaboration with psychiatrists and nurses. Maricela also has experience as a medical social worker in a hospital setting, where she supported patients and families through crisis intervention, discharge planning, and grief—particularly in the ICU—while working closely with multidisciplinary medical teams.

TRAINING & EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development, California State University Fullerton

• Master of Social Work, University of Southern California

• Trained in Motivational interviewing, CBT, Solution Focused, and Psychodynamic Therapy

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

• Individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and life transitions

• Individuals navigating grief and loss

• Children, adults, and couples seeking emotional support and healing

PERSONAL WELLNESS & INTERESTS
Outside of therapy, Maricela enjoys spending time with her family, watching movies and docuseries, and recently began her Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey—an experience she describes as both humbling and grounding.

VISION FOR CLIENT
Maricela believes that healing past wounds allows individuals to lead future generations with greater empathy and compassion. By providing a safe, non-judgmental space, Maricela sees therapy as a powerful tool for breaking cycles of pain and helping clients build lives that feel meaningful, connected, and emotionally supported.

She believes no one should have to navigate life feeling alone, ashamed, or unseen. She is committed to walking alongside her clients, without pressure or urgency, for as long as they need.