About Michelle Castillo
Focus areas
Addiction / Substance Abuse
Depression
Self Esteem Issues
Anxiety
Family Issues
Stress
Bereavement / Grief Counseling
Life Transition
Clientele seen
Adults (25-64)
Individuals
Families
Treatment approaches
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Intervention
Dialectical (DBT)
Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
Interpersonal
Motivational Interviewing
Identity
Gender
FemaleLanguages spoken
English
Getting to know Michelle Castillo
I create a safe, intentional space for adults to process, heal, and grow. I work with adults who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain. Together, we’ll take the time to understand what’s going on beneath the surface and create a path forward that feels doable and meaningful. My goal is to offer support that’s both grounded and personalized.
I support adults navigating anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and life transitions by providing a safe, compassionate space to explore and heal. My approach is strength-based—together we identify what’s already working and build goals around those strengths. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help shift unhelpful thought patterns, mindfulness to support emotional awareness, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) strategies to develop practical coping skills. Therapy with me is intentional, collaborative, and focused on meaningful, lasting change.
I work with adults facing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and life transitions. My ideal clients are seeking a space to reflect, heal, and grow. I focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship and creating realistic, meaningful goals together. Treatment with me is intentional—I aim to help clients feel supported, understood, and empowered as they navigate life’s challenges.
What should a new client know about working with you?
I prioritize open, non-judgmental communication and practice self-reflective, active listening to ensure you feel heard and understood. If you're working through something challenging, you can expect me to remain calm, present, and supportive, creating space for honest expression and meaningful progress. Therapy with me is intentional, collaborative, and focused on lasting change.
For the last 10 years, my journey as a therapist has been rooted in supporting couples, families, and individuals through meaningful change. I began my work in a non-profit setting, where I utilized family systems therapy and individual therapy to help clients navigate complex relational dynamics. I also have experience working with adolescents facing substance use disorders and high-risk behaviors. Today, my focus is on working with adults—helping them move through life’s difficult moments with support, insight, and intention.
What is your typical process for working with clients?
Together, we will identify realistic and achievable goals that align with your values and current needs. I believe healing happens when we give ourselves permission to slow down, reflect, and move with intention. My approach is collaborative and grounded—I meet clients where they are and support them in making meaningful progress at their own pace. Whether you're seeking clarity, confidence, or simply a space to process and be heard, my goal is to help you feel empowered and seen throughout our work together.
In our first session, the focus is on getting to know each other and beginning to build a foundation of trust. We’ll talk about what brings you to therapy, what’s been on your mind, and what you hope to gain from our work together. I’ll also invite you to share what feels supportive for you and what you expect from me as your therapist, so we can create a space that feels safe, collaborative, and tailored to your needs.
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In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
UnitedHealthcare Oxford
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- University of Southern California, Master's in Social Work
NPI number
1043609787
How soon can I make an appointment with Michelle Castillo?
Generally, Michelle Castillo has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Michelle Castillo's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Michelle Castillo accepting new patients?
Michelle Castillo generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Michelle Castillo's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Michelle Castillo accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Michelle Castillo is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Michelle Castillo online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Michelle Castillo using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Michelle Castillo work with?
Michelle Castillo works with Rula Health - Central CA.
What are common reasons for patients to see Michelle Castillo?
Michelle Castillo frequently sees patients for New Patient Visit, Pain Management Consultation, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Sleep Problems. You can see other visit reasons for Michelle Castillo on their profile.
What languages does Michelle Castillo speak?
Michelle Castillo speaks English.