Karla Diesto

I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist experienced in working with school aged children, adults and families. Through my work and own life experiences, I have gained an understanding of the impact of positive connection with others and its role in therapy. As I have listened to people's stories and worked with them in treatment, I have developed an ability to meet the cultural and linguistic needs of my clients.

I believe that it is important to meet the client where they are and that treatment is a process. In this process I take joy in walking each client through a collaborative approach that engages the client in creative ways, and ultimately leads to healing. I particularly enjoy my work with young people, in assisting them develop positive coping skills they can utilize daily in order to manage current symptoms and behaviors. When clinically appropriate, I encourage parent and/or family involvement in order to address concerns.

In my work in mental health, I have learned to foster therapeutic relationships so that the individuals and/or families can work through trauma, depression, anxiety, difficulties in relationships, and challenging family dynamics. I have gained experience through working in community mental health agencies throughout Los Angeles County, both as an outpatient therapist and school based therapist.

I have a BA in Psychology and MS in Counseling: Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling which I received in 2013 from California State University, Los Angeles. Additionally, I hold a Pupil Personnel Services Credential which has allowed me to gain experience in the school setting working closely with families in navigating services and advocating for their children.