Margarita McFadden

Associate Professional Clinical Counselor 
APCC #12398
(Supervised by Andina Aste-Nieto LPCC #9676) 

For many of us, seasons of life can come when it feels like everything is falling apart. In those seasons we all deserve a soft place to land. Therapy can be that place. And you deserve a therapist who sees, hears, and understands you. 

I believe that establishing a good working relationship with you requires acknowledging who I am and how I see the world. That way we can understand how our differences and similarities affect our therapeutic alliance.

As a queer, multicultural Chicana and White woman, born and raised in San Diego (unceded Kumeyaay territory), my identities and lived experiences inform my approach to therapy. I practice trauma-informed, multicultural counseling. This means that no matter who you are, where you come from, and what feels wrong in your life – I believe there is nothing wrong with you. Instead, with compassion and curiosity, I ask: what happened to you? I meet you where you are by offering treatment interventions which resonate with your individual characteristics. And if desired, I help you take charge of your own healing while also placing responsibility in the systems of oppression which have caused harm.

As an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (#12398), I have four years of clinical experience working with BIPOC clients, immigrants, LGBTQIA2S+ clients, neurodivergent youth, parents, and other communities. I have helped individuals, couples, and families address issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relational challenges, and personal growth.

Each client’s experience is unique. But my overarching hope is that my clients feel a greater sense of personal power while also trusting that they are not alone on their journey.

Healing takes courage, and trauma therapy requires patience and self-compassion. If you’ve been struggling, I want you to know that change is possible. Imagine reclaiming your life—responding instead of reacting, feeling safe in your own skin, and reconnecting with the people and experiences that matter most. If you're ready to take that step, I’m here to help. Reach out, and let’s begin this journey together.