Hi, my name is Ariana Rivera. I am a bilingual (English/Español) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (145875) who specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, and family systems who are experiencing life stressors, anxiety, the aftermath of trauma, or early childhood (0-5 years of age) social/emotional/behavioral challenges. I specialize in evidence-informed approaches to treatment including attachment therapy, neurobiology, developmental psychology, and play therapy. I believe relationships can be a source of healing and strive to create a relationship with my clients where they feel safe, valued, and empowered.
I have extensive experience working with children 0-5 years of age as an Early Childhood Mental Health Therapist as well as in the treatment of trauma including domestic violence, sexual abuse, and PTSD. I specialize in neurodivergent-affirming therapy for children and families. I believe that healing unfolds through relationships grounded in safety, trust, co-regulation, and attunement. My work is rooted in attachment-based, trauma-informed care.
I take a strengths-based approach and work to create a safe and collaborative space for clients to ground and process and integrate life experiences while they work to reconnect to themselves and others. I feel deeply honored to support my clients in their journey toward growth and empowerment, and I would be thrilled to connect and offer support.
Clinical Experience
Rady Children’s Hospital - Chadwick Center for Children and Families -Bilingual English/Spanish Trauma Counseling Program Therapist
Group Practice Therapist - Bilingual English/Spanish Therapist where I worked with children , adults, and families navigating life transitions, feelings of loss and change, and overwhelm.
Senior Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) ABA and DIR/Floortime therapist where I worked with children and caretakers in home, community, clinic, and school settings.
Specialized Trainings/Certifications
Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
Play Therapy Program at UCSD
Level One Theraplay
Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy with Autism & ADHD Clients
Clinical Applications of Polyvagal Theory in Trauma Treatment
Domestic Violence Certification