Start Your Healing Journey Today
We realize that healing is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Our unique therapeutic approach is informed by the compassionate and empowering principles of Internal Family Systems (IFS) psychotherapy, integrated with a range of other evidence-based practices to support your path to wellness. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can help you live a more fulfilled, balanced life.
Adult Therapy
We offer a compassionate and empowering approach to adult counseling, deeply informed by the principles of Internal Family Systems (IFS). Our services are designed to meet the unique needs of adults navigating the complexities of modern life, providing a path to inner peace, self-discovery, and lasting change.
Teen Therapy
We recognize the teenage years can be both exciting and tumultuous, filled with unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Our specialized teen psychotherapy services are designed to support adolescents as they navigate the complexities of this critical stage of life.
Couples Therapy
We appreciate that every relationship has its unique set of challenges and moments of disconnect. Whether you’re navigating through rough waters or looking to deepen your bond, our specialized couple’s psychotherapy offers a compassionate space to explore, understand, and strengthen your relationship.
Family Therapy
We understand that families are complex systems with unique dynamics, challenges, and strengths. Our family psychotherapy services are designed to promote understanding, healing, and growth for all family members, enhancing the emotional well-being and relationships within the family unit.
Getting Started is Easy
Free 15 Min Chat
Reach out for an initial consultation to discuss your situation, our approach, and how we can work together to achieve your goals.
Book Appointment
Choose a day and time that works for you. You can book an appointment either virtually or in-person at our Los Gatos location.
1st Session!
You will be receiving an appointment reminder a couple of days before the appointment. Please remember to cancel the appointement at least 24 hours prior to avoid being charged.
Our Team
Our team is committed to creating a confidential, supportive, and empathetic environment where clients can feel safe to explore their difficulties and work towards healing and personal growth.
Gabriela Nielsen, LMFT #48552
Founder/ Psychotherapist
I am a billingual (English/Spanish) Internal Family Systems (IFS) certified psychotherapist and I have been practicing for 15+ years. I’ve learned that creating a safe and supportive space to develop trust is one of the most important elements for a successful therapy.
Laura Johnston, AMFT #127878
Psychotherapist
As a therapist, I bring a mix of warm presence, knowledge, humor, and creativity. I see therapy as a dynamic process and place a lot of value on building trust. Your feedback is important and invited as we work together so that you feel supported and see benefit from our work.
Christine Benetua, AMFT #136226
Psychotherapist
I understand how trauma can stop our daily lives, and force us to time travel to the past to relive our suffering. Trauma can cause blocks in our ability to think, feel, understand ourselves and the world.
Gabriela Nielsen, LMFT
Education: San Francisco State University
License Number: LMFT #48552
Ages Treated: 13-17, 18+
Language(s) Spoken: English, Spanish
I am a billingual (English/Spanish) Internal Family Systems (IFS) certified psychotherapist and I have been practicing for 15+ years. I’ve learned that creating a safe and supportive space to develop trust is one of the most important elements for a successful therapy. That is my main goal.
Some of the theories that inform my work include the following evidence-based practices: Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB). I also use Positive Discipline when working on parenting issues.
Our traumatic experiences are held in our bodies. I may invite you to explore strategies to feel more comfortable in your body. For example, improving sleep, incorporating nutrition that supports emotional wellbeing, or increasing body movement to alleviate tension or stress. Together, we can figure out what amazing adaptive strategies you may have learned to deal with past difficult situations and maybe develop new ones to help in the present. We can explore how you can connect deeply with yourself and with others.
Christine Benetua-Martin, AMFT
Education: Palo Alto University
License Number: AMFT #136226, APCC #12799
Supervisor: Gabriela Nielsen, LMFT #48552
Ages Treated: 13-17, 18+
Language(s) Spoken: English
Hi I’m Christine. I am a registered associate marriage and family therapist under the supervision of Gabriela Nielsen, LMFT #48552.
I understand how trauma can stop our daily lives, and force us to time travel to the past to relive our suffering. Trauma can cause blocks in our ability to think, feel, understand ourselves and the world.
How do we move forward when trauma causes us to feel stuck? In our sessions, you can just be you, and let your defenses melt. I value what you bring to the session, listen with non-jugment. I believe that there is no right way to live, and do not impose my own values. I empower you to grow and change.
It takes courage to move forward in your path of healing. Let’s work together to find your inner wisdom, and strength. I provide a safe space for those of marginalized identities to feel valued and honored.
Laura Johnston, AMFT
Education: Palo Alto University
License Number: AMFT #127878
Supervisor: Gabriela Nielsen, LMFT #48552
Ages Treated: 13-17, 18+
Language(s) Spoken: English
Hi, I’m Laura. I am a registered associate marriage and family therapist under the supervision of Gabriela Nielsen, LMFT #48552.
As a therapist, I bring a mix of warm presence, knowledge, humor, and creativity. I see therapy as a dynamic process and place a lot of value on building trust. Your feedback is important and invited as we work together so that you feel supported and see benefit from our work.
I welcome clients from all backgrounds and have specific experience with creatives, LGBTQIA+, longterm recovery, and late-diagnosed autism.
Trauma impacts us in many ways. Our systems are wise, and sometimes they need help reorienting to the present. I help clients understand their nervous system responses and incorporate aspects of IFS, Coherence Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing into my work for trauma treatment. I also consider a person’s environment and experience in a holistic way to help you develop useful tools and connect with supports.
Whether depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, life stressors, or longer standing impacts of trauma, if you’re ready for change, I’m ready to help.
Our Integrative Therapy Approach
Understanding that each individual’s journey is unique, we blend the insights of IFS with modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness practices, and more. This integrative approach ensures that therapy is personalized to fit your specific needs, helping you to achieve balance and wellness in all areas of life.
How Our Therapy Supports You
Comprehensive Healing: By weaving together IFS principles with modalities like CBT and DBT, we offer a multi-faceted approach to healing emotional wounds, transforming negative behavior patterns, and addressing mental health challenges.
Mindfulness and Self-Compassion: Incorporating mindfulness practices enhances self-awareness and fosters a compassionate relationship with oneself, facilitating deeper healing and self-acceptance.
Balanced Well-being: Our holistic focus extends beyond emotional and mental health, supporting your journey towards physical wellness and spiritual fulfillment as part of a complete healing process.
Resilient Growth: Equip yourself with a diverse set of tools and strategies for personal resilience, empowering you to navigate life’s challenges and pursue continuous personal growth.
Contact Us
Ask a question or book an appointment below. For emergencies call 911 or visit your nearest hospital.