Sadie Hernandez, AMFT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 148853
Schooling and Training: I attended Hope International University where I obtained my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Additionally, while at Hope International University I had the opportunity to be EMDR trained according to EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) requirements. During my time acquiring my Masters, I received my training as a therapist under supervision at The LGBTQ Center OC. There I was trained in writing support letters for folks looking to receive gender affirming care, including HRT and surgery. I worked with folks on a myriad of issues including gender exploration, sexuality exploration, anxiety, depression, body image, trauma, as well as couples navigating changes in sexuality/gender and looking to stop their cycle of conflict and improve communication to foster a healthier and more satisfying relationship.
Therapeutic Focus: I work with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples. Specifically, the people that enjoy working with me are people who struggle with anxiety, shame,depression, trauma, and are often their own worst critics. The people I work with often have difficulty knowing how to explore their inner emotional experience (aka feeling the feelings) and get trapped intellectualizing their feelings and experiences. Because of that, they are in need of self-compassion, curiosity, and guidance to be more in their bodies and strengthen their connection to their inner emotional experience in order to heal from the inside out.
Approach to Therapy: My approach to therapy, while ever-deepening, is rooted in anti-racist, decolonized, queer-affirming care. Meaning, I prioritize acknowledging how harmful systems often both create and perpetuate mental health problems. My style is relational, non-judgmental, compassionate, and deeply curious. I don’t believe in solving problems or “band-aiding” problems via behavioral changes. Together, we dig in and explore the “bad” parts that lead to making “bad” choices. Then, we get curious, we develop understanding and empathy, and we better the relationship you have with yourself in order to uncover and heal the pain you carry.
Fun Facts About Me: In my free time I love to thrift, go to concerts and listen to music, and spend time outdoors. I am notorious for starting books and never finishing them, watching the same shows on repeat, and never turning down french fries.
Fees: $170 for individuals and 190 for couples