ABOUT

Dr. Wendy Herrera

Dr. Wendy Herrera, PsyD, is a Clinical Psychologist with a specialization in Clinical Forensic Psychology. She completed her doctorate at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (TCSPP) in Los Angeles and obtained her bachelor's degree in psychology from California State University-Long Beach. In 2022, Dr. Herrera received her license to practice in California. With her bicultural and bilingual background, she is able to provide trauma-informed care to both English and Spanish-speaking individuals. Dr. Herrera has extensive experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds who are facing challenges related to life transitions, identity, acculturation, intergenerational trauma, and various psychosocial stressors. Her expertise and compassionate approach make her a valuable asset to those seeking support and healing.

Dr. Herrera is a versatile therapist who tailors her treatment approach to her clients' individual needs. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment and offers this modality when clinically appropriate. In her practice, Dr. Herrera utilizes a collaborative and insight-oriented approach that incorporates Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She is deeply committed to assisting individuals in rediscovering their optimal well-being and reconnecting with their true selves.

Dr. Herrera understands the importance of self-care and makes sure to prioritize it in her life. She finds joy and fulfillment in spending quality time with her loved ones, whether it's her family, friends, or her adorable trio of dogs. In order to stay physically active and maintain a healthy lifestyle, she regularly engages in weight training, pushing herself to new limits and challenging her body. But it's not all about exercise for Dr. Herrera. She also has a creative side, and finds solace in activities like writing and reading. Whether it's penning down her thoughts or immersing herself in the pages of a captivating book, these activities allow her to unwind and tap into her artistic spirit. Lastly, she values her alone time, recognizing the importance of self-reflection and introspection. It is during these moments of solitude that she finds clarity and recharges her energy.

My methods

EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a highly effective therapy for individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other anxiety-related disorders. This structured therapy involves the client briefly recalling the traumatic memory while undergoing bilateral stimulation, often in the form of eye movements. The purpose of this bilateral stimulation is to reduce the intensity and emotional impact of the trauma memories. By repeatedly engaging in this process, clients can experience a significant reduction in the severity of their symptoms. EMDR is a proven and widely recognized approach that has provided immense relief to countless individuals struggling with the aftermath of traumatic experiences.

IFS

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a widely recognized evidence-based psychotherapy that focuses on healing individuals by addressing their internal protective and wounded parts. Through IFS, individuals are able to establish a deeper connection with their inner and outer selves. The therapy begins by helping individuals access their true Self, which acts as the core from which they can understand and heal their various inner parts. By working on this level, IFS aims to bring about a sense of wholeness and harmony within individuals, enabling them to heal and grow on a profound level.

CBT

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a proven psychological treatment method that focuses on empowering individuals to become their own therapists. This approach has been supported by extensive scientific evidence, demonstrating its effectiveness in bringing about actual change. In CBT sessions, clients engage in various exercises to develop coping skills and learn to modify their own thinking patterns, troublesome emotions, and behaviors. Additionally, clients are assigned homework exercises to practice outside of sessions, further reinforcing their ability to implement these coping strategies. By placing the responsibility on the individual to actively participate in their own healing process, CBT offers a practical and sustainable approach to managing psychological challenges.

Collaborative Therapy

Collaborative therapy is a transformative method that prioritizes mutual understanding, trust, and empowerment for both therapist and client. This approach emphasizes a shared journey towards positive change, where the therapist and client work together as equals. Through respectful and open communication, clients are encouraged to express their desires for personal growth, allowing for meaningful and transformative conversations. By fostering a collaborative and client-centered environment, this therapy empowers individuals to take an active role in their healing process and make informed decisions about their own lives. Collaborative therapy recognizes the importance of the therapeutic relationship and ensures that clients feel heard, supported, and respected throughout their journey towards personal transformation.

Fees for Services

Initial 15 minute telephone consultation: Free
The fee for a 60-minute individual therapy session is $200
The hourly rate for psychological evaluation is $300 per hour :
The total cost of assessments can vary quite a bit. Typically, assessments take between 8 -23 hours, however sometimes they can take more or less time depending on:

→ The type of report

→ Complexity of the concerns

→ Type of assessment and tests

→ Number of tests and subtests ·

→ Client presentation (dual/multiple differential diagnoses, longer assessments required).