METZTLI COUNSELING
Marissa García Soria, LCSW#74256 
& associates

909.303.5551 or 626.214.5362

  • Home
  • Services - Servicios
  • About US
  • ESPAÑOL- NUESTRO EQUIPO
  • Areas of Focus/Modalities
  • Contact
  • Policies and Fees
  • Resources
  • More
    • Home
    • Services - Servicios
    • About US
    • ESPAÑOL- NUESTRO EQUIPO
    • Areas of Focus/Modalities
    • Contact
    • Policies and Fees
    • Resources

909.303.5551 or 626.214.5362

METZTLI COUNSELING
Marissa García Soria, LCSW#74256 
& associates
  • Home
  • Services - Servicios
  • About US
  • ESPAÑOL- NUESTRO EQUIPO
  • Areas of Focus/Modalities
  • Contact
  • Policies and Fees
  • Resources

our purpose:

EMPOWER. BREAK CYCLES. BE KIND.

At Metztli Counseling, we are committed to walking alongside our clients 

in their healing journeys with compassion, cultural humility, and deep respect. 

We believe that meaningful healing happens when care is rooted in a genuine understanding 

of each person’s lived experience, cultural background, and language needs.

Our practice is grounded in trauma-informed care, and we are dedicated to creating a safe, brave, and collaborative space 

where clients feel empowered to explore and heal from family-of-origin dynamics, generational cycles, and intergenerational trauma.

We proudly serve individuals from all walks of life and are an inclusive, affirming team. Our clinicians offer LGBTQ+ affirming and 

neurodivergent-affirming care, including supportive services for those navigating ADHD and other forms of neurodiversity.

At Metztli, you are welcomed as your full self—and we are honored to support you on your path toward healing, growth, and empowerment.

About US... ADMIN TEAM

MARISSA GARCÍA SORIA,MSW, LCSW

LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER  CALIFORNIA LCSW #74256 

    AUTHOR OF: PARENTING TEEN BOYS


  • IN PERSON & ONLINE SESSIONS
  • EMDR CERTIFIED
  • CERTIFIED GRIEF INFORMED CARE


I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 22 years 

of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and 

Spanish-speaking clients. I am EMDR certified and specialize in supporting, empowering, and advocating for individuals navigating the healing process from a wide range of traumas.


I earned my Master's in Social Work from California State University, 

Long Beach, and have had the privilege of working with diverse populations. My clinical experience includes providing therapy 

to children and families with the LA County Department of Mental 

Health, as well as working with a variety of community-based organizations. Whether through individual, couples or 

family therapy, I’ve supported clients in addressing challenges such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship difficulties.I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and transitional-age youth. 


My approach centers on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can express themselves freely and begin to work through barriers

 impacting their lives—whether at home, school, or work. As a therapist, 

my goal is to create a space where healing and transformation 

are not only possible, but expected. I’m deeply committed to offering trauma-informed, culturally competent care that honors each individual’s unique experiences and background. We’ll explore generational, 

cultural, and childhood patterns that may have shaped your life 

and work together to help you overcome them. 


My work is informed by a decolonized lens, recognizing the impact of 

systemic oppression and advocating for healing that centers empowerment, self-determination, and dignity. Together, we’ll work toward lasting change—whether it’s finding peace within, improving your relationships, or creating a more fulfilling life. I’m here to listen, support, and walk with you through this journey toward healing and growth.


         AREAS OF FOCUS:

  • TRAUMA 
  • TEENS (14+)
  • ADHD
  • WOMEN'S ISSUES
  • FIRST RESPONDERS
    (including therapists, military, LEO's & medical providers)
  • TERMINAL ILLNESS
  • GENERATIONAL/ LATINX CULTURAL/ FAMILIAL CYCLES 
  • COUPLES AND MEDIATION
  • FAMILY THERAPY 
  • GRIEF & LOSS

FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM...

CHRISTINE BLAS, MA,LMFT

LICENSED MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPIST 

CALIFORNIA LMFT #135538


  • ONLINE ONLY
  • EMDR TRAINED
  • GOTTMAN LEVEL 2 TRAINED


I am passionate about providing a safe environment for my clients. I believe that every individual who comes to see me should have the opportunity to tell their story, feel heard and be given a supportive space to do the hard internal work. I understand that diving into old or new hurts can be challenging, but I want to help you find healing and begin your journey to a life that you desire.  I enjoy working with adolescents (15+), adults, college students, couples, and families. I work with individuals who are battling with depression, anxiety, relational conflict, self-esteem issues, trauma, identity formation, and spiritual formation.


         AREAS OF FOCUS:

  • TRAUMA
  • DEPRESSION
  • ANXIETY
  • COUPLES
  • MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDERS & STUDENTS
  • SPIRITUAL/ RELIGIOUS TRAUMA

Follow me on Instagram...

GISELL GOMEZ, MSW, LCSW

 LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER

      CALIFORNIA LCSW#119056

 

  • IMMIGRATION EVALUATIONS
  • IN PERSON & ONLINE SESSIONS


As a first-generation daughter of Mexican immigrants accessing therapy was not always the easiest nor was it considered the norm. Therapy can sometimes be a difficult and scary process for individuals. As a Latina professional bridging the gap between mental health and communities of color as well as making mental health accessible for those seeking therapeutic supports is a mission I continue striving towards as a therapist.


I believe that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach and I strive to tailor a therapeutic approach to each individual’s needs in treatment. Therapy is not a sprint, but an ongoing process where the individual works to learn the necessary coping mechanisms to help them manage the the everyday stressors of life more effectively.


I strive to implement a therapeutic approach where I foster a safe space for those in need of mental health support and focus on a strength-based approach. I have experience working with high acuity needs, domestic violence, family instability, complex trauma, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues, and working through relationship dynamics. Let’s connect to discuss how we can work on helping you connect and process your mind, body and spirit. 


              AREAS OF FOCUS: 

  • COLLEGE STUDENTS
  • WOMEN'S ISSUES
  • CULTURAL FAMILIAL CYCLES
  • TRAUMA
  • SELF-ESTEEM
  •  PEOPLE PLEASING 

MEDICATION SUPPORT

MIGUEL ORTEGA, DNP, BFA, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-BC, Doctoral Prepared

Miguel is our Bilingual Medication Support provider. 

He is a  Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations in order to determine medication support needs. 


Hello, I’m Miguel, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I see individuals that are 16 years of age and older, who wish to improve their mental health. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management. 

I was born in Los Angeles and raised in a mixed-generational Mexican-American home. I am fluent in Spanish, enjoy creative problem-solving, and love to see (and make) art because it allows people to express themselves through different mediums to say what cannot always be said. For the better part of my mental health career, I have worked with adolescents and adults who have difficulties with their mental health, both chronic and situationally. Seeing and experiencing how the mental health system can treat a person as “just another patient” inspired me to be more than just a person who prescribes medication to treat symptoms. So, if you are looking for someone who actively listens, engages in meaningful dialogue, and can also potentially prescribe medication to help you on your journey of healing and improving your quality of life


AREAS OF FOCUS: 

  • ADHD
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Mood Disorders
  • Trauma
  • PTSD
  • Sleep Disorders/ Insomnia

ABOUT US...CLINICAL STAFF

LISA SERRANO, MA.Ed, LPCC

AKETZALLI MORALEZ MSW, ACSW

LISA SERRANO, MA.Ed, LPCC

           LICENSED PROFESSIONAL       

            CLINICAL COUNSELOR                                 

        CALIFORNIA LPCC #12679 


  • IN PERSON & ONLINE SESSIONS


Hi ! My name is Lisa, an LPCC with over 10  years of experience working with children, teens, young adults, adults and Spanish speaking clients. I am trained in MAP, Seeking Safety and Grief Counseling.  I  graduated from Azusa Pacific University with a Master’s in Educational and Clinical Counseling. My clinical experience includes working with children and families in both school settings and community agencies. 


 I have extensive experience working with children, teens, adults and families experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, grief, trauma, anger management, behavioral issues, life transitions and crisis intervention. My experiences have also allowed me the opportunity to work with a diverse population, including those with low socio-economic backgrounds, foster children, foster parents, and Latino cultures.  My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, confiding and serene environment using a collaborative approach that will assist you in re-discovering your strengths, which in turn will allow for healing and growth. 


              AREAS OF FOCUS:

  • CHILDREN (5-11)
  • HSP- HIGHLY SENSITIVE PEOPLE
  • WOMEN'S ISSUES
  • CAREGIVER ROLES/BURNOUT
  • CHRONIC ILLNESS
  • COUPLES

JENNIFER RAMIREZ, MA, AMFT

AKETZALLI MORALEZ MSW, ACSW

LISA SERRANO, MA.Ed, LPCC

         ASSOCIATE MARRIAGE 

           & FAMILY THERAPIST  

      CALIFORNIA AMFT #131968

     (supervised by 

      Marissa García Soria, LCSW74256)


  • IN PERSON & ONLINE SESSIONS
  • EMDR TRAINED


Hello and welcome! I am a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with various populations, including survivors of intimate partner violence, adolescents, and women. I hope to create a safe space for you and for you to feel seen and heard. I am committed to helping women and teens learn how to feel empowered and vulnerable all at the same time. 


My work focuses on targeting ineffective thoughts and behaviors, and rewriting the story. I believe you are the expert in your own narrative, and working collaboratively, we can help you reach your goals. I am passionate about helping you work through barriers/intergenerational obstacles/communication issues and developing a healthy mindset. I hope to work with you soon!


        AREAS OF FOCUS:

  • TEENS (12+)
  • WOMEN'S ISSUES
  • FAMILY THERAPY
  • COUPLES

Follow me on Instagram...

AKETZALLI MORALEZ MSW, ACSW

AKETZALLI MORALEZ MSW, ACSW

AKETZALLI MORALEZ MSW, ACSW

ASSOCIATE CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER

             CALIFORNIA ASW#109978 

  (supervised by Tina Gonzalez, MA, LMFT110005)


  • IN PERSON & ONLINE SESSIONS


Hola! I graduated from the University of Southern California with a Masters in Social Work specializing in children, youth, and families. My clinical experience includes providing individual and group therapy for adolescents and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, substance use, eating disorders and self-harming behaviors. I have led group sessions on various topics including: anger management, CBT and DBT skills, relapse prevention, self-esteem and communication. I have experience working with adolescents in short term residential therapeutic programs, juvenile justice settings and mental health outpatient treatment centers.


              AREAS OF FOCUS: 

  • TEENS (12+) 
  • YOUNG ADULTS (16-25)
  • COLLEGE STUDENTS
  • GENERATIONAL TRAUMA
  • TRAUMA INFORMED YOGA

MARIA REYES MSW/ACSW

LILLY ROSERO MHS

AKETZALLI MORALEZ MSW, ACSW

 MSW, ASSOCIATE CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER CALIFORNIA ACSW#124856 

(supervised by Marissa Garcia Soria, MSW, LCSW #74256)


  • IN PERSON + ONLINE SESSIONS AVAILABLE 


Hi, I’m Maria! As a first-generation Latina, I’ve always been passionate about supporting my community and creating spaces where people feel heard, understood, and empowered. My path started with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, but my love for human connection led me to earn Master’s degrees in both Psychology and Social Work.

Over the years, I’ve worked in a variety of clinical settings, from medical and hospice care to supporting children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I’ve also had the privilege of working with individuals with developmental disabilities, helping them navigate life with the dignity and care they deserve. No two people are the same, and I approach therapy with that in mind—meeting each person where they are and tailoring support to their unique needs.

Outside of work, you’ll probably find me cheering on my favorite baseball team, getting my hands dirty in the garden, or traveling to experience new places and cultures. I believe that healing is a journey, not a destination, and I’m honored to walk alongside my clients as they grow, heal, and thrive.


AREAS OF FOCUS:

  • Children 5-11
  • Young adults 
  • College students 
  • Grief and loss
  • Veterans & Military family members 

LILLY ROSERO MHS

LILLY ROSERO MHS

LILLY ROSERO MHS

MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST 


  • IN PERSON + ONLINE SESSIONS AVAILABLE 


I am a dedicated Mental Health Specialist with a strong background in child development and family support. I earned my Bachelor’s in Child Development from Cal State Los Angeles and have experience working with children, teens, and families. I believe that every child has a voice and deserves a safe space to express themselves. I understand that children and teens face emotional challenges, and parents often feel overwhelmed. My goal is to help families better understand their children’s mental and emotional well-being, creating stronger relationships and communication. I strive to create a supportive and nurturing environment where children and teens feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions while strengthening their connections with their families.

our interns....

Francisco Martinez MSW Intern

Kevin Mora MSW Intern

Kevin Mora MSW Intern

Hola mi gente!

I am a bilingual MSW intern in my second year of the Master of Social Work program at California State University of Long Beach. My diverse experience includes working with

children, transitional age youth, adults, and families across various programs focused on substance use, mental health, homelessness, foster care, and re-

Hola mi gente!

I am a bilingual MSW intern in my second year of the Master of Social Work program at California State University of Long Beach. My diverse experience includes working with

children, transitional age youth, adults, and families across various programs focused on substance use, mental health, homelessness, foster care, and re-entry for formerly incarcerated

individuals. 

As a passionate mental health advocate, I am committed to breaking the cycle of

generational trauma in my journey and would be honored to support others as well. My goal is to empower individuals by offering personalized support and cultivating a safe, collaborative space where we can work together to overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. I am dedicated to meeting people where they are and providing empathetic, compassionate care that encourages growth and healing.

Kevin Mora MSW Intern

Kevin Mora MSW Intern

Kevin Mora MSW Intern

¡Saludos!

Kevin here! I am a first-generation gay Mexican-American entering my second year of the Master of Social Work program at California State University of Long Beach and beginning my first-year

internship with Metztli Counseling Services. I am passionate about human connection and kindness, which motivated me to pursue a career as an

¡Saludos!

Kevin here! I am a first-generation gay Mexican-American entering my second year of the Master of Social Work program at California State University of Long Beach and beginning my first-year

internship with Metztli Counseling Services. I am passionate about human connection and kindness, which motivated me to pursue a career as an LCSW. 

I would describe myself as fair, determined, gentle, empathetic, and mindful. For the past ten years, I have worked for a major healthcare provider as a patient advocate, where I

have witnessed the negative impacts systemic oppression has on the mental health needs of minority individuals. As an internship student, I look forward to learning various therapy modalities

that are more sensitive to the particular needs of each individual, encompassing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, identity dysphoria, and discrimination. While at Metztli Counseling, I hope to garner the knowledge necessary to positively support individuals on their healing journey. To those clients

who will trust me to aid them, I am immensely grateful for the opportunity and await our future sessions with great pleasure!

SUPPORT STAFF

THERAPY DOG

             NALA


Nala is our therapy dog ​​who accompanies our clinical director, Marissa in therapeutic sessions and provides additional support to her clients.

ADMIN ASSITANT

 LAUREN MENDOZA, BS

BILLING SPECIALIST

 M. TERESA SANCHEZ, MPA


Teresa comes to us with a wealth of knowledge and experience and provides support for our HR Department and Billing 


Copyright © 2025 Marissa Soria, LCSW - All Rights Reserved.

Powered by

This website uses cookies.

We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.

Accept

Follow our newsletter!

Updates on groups and mental health!

 Join us for your Metztli chisme!

Learn more