Hi, my name is Ellie Martinez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California.

I identify as a bicultural and bilingual Latina woman. I have worked with children, individuals and couples with a range of issues including complex trauma, substance abuse, severe mental illness, grief, and chronic health issues in various settings. My goal is to offer a non-judgmental and safe space for you to be able to discuss and process thoughts and experiences and work closely with you to restore your emotional wellness.

I currently work with adults in various phases of their lives with a focus on perinatal mental health. My work integrates a social justice framework to understand how historical socio-political policies and systems have negatively affected many of us and can often contribute to generational trauma. I practice cultural humility and continue to work on deepening my understanding of factors that contribute to our overall wellness. I incorporate evidenced-based modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness and Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT). I am also in training for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).

As someone who faced my own challenges managing the perinatal journey, I deeply empathize and want to support individuals at all stages of this journey into parenthood and in parenting. I am an active member of Postpartum Support International (PSI) and have specialized training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. I am currently working towards my certification as a Perinatal Mental Health clinician through PSI.

Perhaps your journey in becoming a parent has not been what you expected. Maybe that leaves you feeling overwhelmed, confused, sad, angry, guilty and/or shame. It is my honor to support you through your journey which can be joyous, scary, tiring, fulfilling and challenging all at the same time. Together I believe that we can figure out what you need in order to live a fulfilling and authentic life. Maya Angelou once said, “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” I hope I can accompany you through this journey!

*If you are not sure if you are experiencing pregnancy or postpartum issues you can call me for a 15-minute free consultation and we can explore this to determine whether my services are right for you. You do not need to continue to suffer alone.