Brianda DeCastro

Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (California / 131679)

I believe that with awareness comes alignment to our true selves.

Life has a way of pulling you in so many directions, you’re left wondering where you fit into the big picture. You may be noticing relationships feeling increasingly disconnected—intimacy challenges, increased conflict, and communication breakdowns. Feelings of anger, resentment, or anxiety can seem to have snuffed out the “spark” you used to have about your life.

You might find yourself avoiding certain places, people, or even memories—often feeling like you need to watch your back, or fighting a flood of emotions you’re worried will catch you off guard. You wish you could just “get over it,” but are realizing feeling better isn’t that simple.

I work with teens and adults, including first responders, who are realizing something in their lives and relationships needs to shift. Maybe you need someone to talk to without worrying about saying the “right” thing, or maybe you’re seeking tools to communicate better, set boundaries, and regain a sense of confidence that’s been missing for a long time. 

I believe there is wisdom in what your body and emotions are telling you. In our work together, I take a holistic approach, using body-based methods such as Somatic Experiencing to help you listen to those messages and use them to become better attuned to your true self and what you need in order to feel more deeply connected with your life and the people you love. As a sex therapist, I can also help you navigate challenges related to your sexuality, desire, and emotional connection.

It’s okay to not have all the answers yet—our work together is about exploring what’s going on and finding a way forward that’s right for you.

  • In our sessions, we’ll focus on reconnecting you with yourself, your body, and your true sense of purpose. As a trauma-informed clinician, I bring years of experience and specialized training to help you process, find meaning, and move forward from past experiences.

    Sometimes, I might pause you when you’re sharing—not to stop the story, but to bring awareness to what your body is telling you in that moment. This awareness can be a powerful tool that extends beyond therapy, helping you to understand what your body and mind need as you move through life. With approaches like Somatic Experiencing and EMDR, we’ll address how trauma lives in the body and affects your present, giving you the resources to manage and move through those impacts.

    You’re the expert on your life, and I’m here to support you as you work toward feeling whole and aligned with who you want to be. We’re partners in this process, and I’ll create a space where you’ll never be judged or minimized. Whether we’re talking through a relationship or sexual issue, addressing past trauma, or exploring ways to build confidence, I’ll be beside you with empathy, curiosity, and a commitment to your growth.

    Originally from Brazil, my journey began with a deep curiosity about human behavior, which led me to study psychology both in Brazil and the United States. I hold a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and am currently a Doctoral Intern in Clinical Psychology with a focus on Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute. I’ve had the honor of working with clients from diverse backgrounds, including military families.

    The work we do together won’t be about perfection—it’s about progress, awareness, and cultivating a life that feels more connected and fulfilling. I look forward to joining you on this journey, and offering a compassionate, grounded presence along the way.

    • Teens (13+)

    • Adults

    • Trauma

    • PTSD

    • Anxiety

    • Relationship issues

    • Sex therapy

    • First responders

    • Military personnel & spouses

    • Somatic Experiencing

    • EMDR

    • Sex therapy

    • Psychodynamic therapy

    • CA virtual sessions

    • AZ virtual sessions (coming soon)

    • FL virtual sessions (coming soon)

    • Individual Sessions $160

    • In-network with:

      • Aetna (Coming Soon)

      • United Health Care (Coming Soon)