Hi there, I’m Marianne. I know reaching out for therapy can feel like a big step, and I’m glad you’re here. I hold a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University and a bachelor’s in psychology from San Jose State University. I am a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, CA #159493, under the supervision of Dr. Hubbis D. Fabian, Ph.D., LMFT, CA #135664. I was born in the Philippines and immigrated to the US at a young age. This influences my passion for advancing mental health knowledge and awareness in Asian communities. When I’m not doing therapy, I love attending concerts, watching movies, and spending time with my friends, family, and my two cats! 

I began my work as a therapist at a nonprofit supporting couples and families, where I developed a strong foundation for couples work and a passion for helping people reconnect– with themselves and with each other. I’ve seen how easy it is for people to feel stuck in painful patterns, and I believe that with compassion, understanding, and the right support, meaningful change is possible.

Growing up as an immigrant, I understand the complexity of navigating multiple identities, expectations, and life transitions. That lived experience shapes how I show up in therapy—with empathy, openness, and deep respect for each person’s story. I specialize in working with couples, specifically helping partners rebuild trust, improve communication, and feel more secure in their relationships. My work is rooted in supporting diverse and intersectional communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, BIPOC communities, individuals, couples, and families, while remaining attentive to the systemic and contextual factors that shape mental health. My approach is also grounded in compassion, trauma-informed, and collaborative, while aiming to provide a culturally responsive and affirming space where clients from diverse backgrounds feel supported and understood.

I utilize approaches like Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and attachment-based work to help you better understand your patterns and how they show up in your emotions and relationships. Together, we’ll explore how past experiences may be shaping your present and gently connect with the parts of you that need care and attention. This process can help you feel more secure, understood, and connected to yourself and to others. You don’t have to have everything figured out—just a space where you can show up as you are. 

If this sounds good to you, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I can also provide therapy in Tagalog and Ilocano.