Lissette Manzo

Welcome 

Hi, I’m Lissette Manzo. As a Mexican American Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) trainee studying at California Baptist University, I know how complex it can be to balance culture, family expectations, and daily life. You deserve a safe, gentle space where you can take off the mask, feel truly heard, and just breathe.

My Communication Approach

In our sessions, you will find that my communication style is kind, respectful, deeply empathetic, and focused on active listening. I do not just sit and nod. I am fully present with you, listening to both your words and the heavy emotions beneath them. I believe that therapy is a collaborative partnership. You are the true expert on your own life story, and my role is to walk alongside you as an ally. My approach is completely client-centered. We will work closely as a team to reach your unique, desired goals, navigate daily struggles, and uncover practical outcomes that bring peace back to your life.

How We Will Work Together

To help you get there, I combine evidence-based tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a specific type of talk therapy that helps us look closely at how your thoughts, feelings, and actions are connected. Together, we will notice any negative or unhelpful thought patterns that are making you feel stuck, and we will work to change them. At the same time, we will use Solution-Focused Therapy to look forward. This means we won't just dwell on what is broken, we will actively find solutions, build on your natural strengths, and map out a clear path toward the future you want to see. 

What to Expect in Our First Session

Taking the very first step to start therapy can feel scary, vulnerable, or overwhelming, and that is completely normal. Our first session together will be low-pressure. Our main focus will simply be on getting comfortable with each other, building trust, and creating a safe space. I will ask you gentle questions about how you have been feeling recently, what challenges you are facing right now, and the journey of how you got to where you are today. Our first meeting is all about laying a solid foundation at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

Let's Connect

I am truly excited to meet you, and I look forward to connecting with you soon. No matter how heavy things feel right now, please know that you do not have to carry it all by yourself anymore. Let's take that next step together.