Christian J. Portillo
Hello, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I earned my Master’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and have been practicing for eight years. I specialize in men’s issues, major life transitions, and treating work-related stress and anxiety.
As a Latino male, I understand firsthand how challenging it can be to ask for help, especially when it comes to our mental health.
My expertise includes trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, collaborative problem-solving, and mental health treatment. I am committed to expanding access to quality mental health care for children, families, and adults, helping individuals build resilience and navigate life’s challenges with confidence.
First session
In our first session, we’ll talk about what brought you to therapy and go over the things that are on your mind right now. This will help us understand what’s most important to focus on as we begin working together.
Strengths
As a therapist, educator, and social worker, I bring curiosity, empathy, and a practical approach to each session. I listen closely, ask thoughtful questions, and help clients better understand what they’re experiencing while identifying realistic steps forward. I also recognize that culture, family, and life experiences shape how we see ourselves and the world around us. Most importantly, I meet clients where they are and work alongside them to build greater confidence, self-awareness, healthier boundaries, and trust in themselves.
Ideal clients
I currently work with adults aged 18 to 45, including those who are new to therapy and seeking support in their mental health journey. I also specialize in working with healthcare professionals facing burnout and navigating demanding work environments. My focus is on providing a safe and collaborative space for clients to explore their challenges and build the tools needed to thrive both personally and professionally.
Treatment methods
Person-centered (Rogerian)
Person-centered therapy, also known as client-centered therapy, offers a supportive environment where individuals can enhance their self-awareness and discover their own solutions. By fostering a non-judgmental space, this approach empowers clients to take charge of their mental well-being and facilitates their pursuit of meaningful, positive changes in their lives. The benefits of person-centered therapy include heightened self-awareness, improved communication skills, a greater ability to express thoughts and feelings, and the capacity to move beyond past hurts or mistakes.
Psychoeducation
Psychoeducation is a crucial aspect of treatment, as it equips clients with accurate information, resources, and skills related to their specific mental health diagnosis or condition. By empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their care, psychoeducation aims to reduce stigma, enhance treatment outcomes, build resilience, and strengthen support networks.
Strength-Based
A strengths-based approach focuses on clients’ existing skills, resources, and resilience to foster growth and positive change. By collaboratively identifying their strengths, I help clients reframe negative experiences, build confidence, and develop solutions that align with their values and goals. This approach empowers clients to see themselves as capable and resourceful, promoting long-term well-being and resilience
Location
Virtual sessions