Conversations that INVITE possibility
Sometimes problems block us from the path we want to take in life. These challenges don’t need to define you. Let’s work together to reclaim your story.
Available for telehealth sessions in California.
Fernando Barcelona MA, LMFT
In our work together, you’ll find a space that feels open and without judgment, where we can explore the things that matter most to you. I’m here to listen and understand, not just as a therapist but as someone who values the real, human connections that shape our lives.
Together, we’ll untangle challenges and find ways to tap into your unique strengths. I believe in the power of community, connection, and the stories we carry, and I’ll bring this spirit into each conversation. My hope is that we’ll co-create tools and insights that genuinely fit your world—relevant, practical, and aligned with your goals.
In-Person Sessions | Palm Springs, CA
Telehealth Sessions | All of California
*I do not take Insurance at this time but can provide superbills for PPOs.
*See fee section for more information.
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I hold a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles and bring a trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming approach to my practice. My work integrates post-modern modalities, including Narrative Therapy and Internal Family Systems, along with specialized training in EMDR and ADHD Clinical Services.
Before becoming a therapist, I spent years as a creative professional in the advertising and entertainment industries. This experience gave me firsthand insight into the unique pressures of writing scripts, managing productions, and navigating the high demands of clients and teams.
I have also served as a communications director and public health advocate in the nonprofit sector, addressing issues such as foster care advocacy, LGBTQIA+ rights, HIV/AIDS awareness, substance use challenges, first-generation acculturation, and anti-racism initiatives.
This diverse background allows me to bring a rich perspective to my work, offering clients a compassionate and informed space to explore their unique experiences and challenges.
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American Association of Marriage and Families Therapist
California Association of Marriage and Families Therapists
ADHD- Certified Clinical Service Provider
Be Strong Families, Board Member (Marketing Chair) - (2016-2020)
Health Initiatives for Youth, Board Member (2004-2007)
Californian Art Scholar - Creative Writing (1997, 1999)
AREAS Of FOCUS
Regardless of the issue, I strongly believe that therapy shouldn’t feel like a one-size-fits-all situation. Each session should be tailored to the needs of clients at their pace and with their goals always in mind. Below are some of the areas I have experience working with and have had advanced training and certififications.
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Mood Disorders
Dealing with anxiety, depression or a diagnosis of bi-polar can be overwhelming. We can feel trapped, alone or even confused where to go next with these problems. They sneak up on us, sometimes affecting our work, our relationships and even dimming the dreams we once had for ourselves. Through our work we will try to understand where you stand with these challenges, learn how these problems work in your life, and find ways in which you can reclaim your story with new possibilities.
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Challenges with Attention
Whether you have been diagnosed with Adult ADHD, or identify as neurodivergent, or just feel “scattered”, we will work together to disrupt the cycle of blame and shame. I am trained as an ADHD Clinical Service Provider who likes to go beyond strategies and work with clients to re-author new narratives around motivation, productivity and career.
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RELATIONAL ISSUES
Problems can get in the way with how we communicate and show up in our relationships. I work with individuals, couples, friends and adult siblings to go beyond debate and find ways to foster real conversation. Whether you have trouble dealing with people in your professional or personal life, our work will be focused on helping you feel less stuck in what may feel like endless cycles of miscommunication and misunderstandings. I am well informed how to work with all types of relationships including monogamous, non-monogamous, kink, polyamorous and platonic.
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LGBTQIA+ ISSUES
Being part of the LGBTQIA+ community goes beyond who we are attracted to. It affects how we are perceived by our families, workplace and everyday communities. Our lives can sometimes feel like they exist outside the dominant heteronormative narratives, unseen and unheard. As a therapist, my work with with queer folks is always informed, non-judgmental and affirming.
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OCD / REPETITIVE THINKING
Although my work is centered in narrative therapy, I also borrow from exposure response prevention (ERP) and cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) to work with folks who have unwanted repetitive thinking or behaviors. Together we will get to know what is behind these loop cycles, rituals and phobias and author ways to escape them.
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CREATIVE CAREER ISSUES
I worked as a creative professional in the advertising and entertainment industries for almost two decades. This experience familiarized me with the specific stressors these professions. From writer’s block and feeling undervalued by an employer to dealing with rejection and imposter syndrome, I understand how complicated these paths can be and how easily one can internalize these challenges.
SERVICES AND FEES
Reach out for a free 15 min consultation.
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Sessions cost $200 and are 50 mins long (In-Person or VIrtual).
I have a few sliding scale slots based on need and availability.
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Sessions cost $225 and are 50 mins long (In-person or virtual). Longer sessions are available for an additional cost.
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Sessions cost $250 and are 50 mins long (in-person or vIrtual). Longer sessions are available for an additional cost.
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Group therapy fees vary from $25-$75 based on the group. To find out what groups are currently available click on the group therapy tab in the header.
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I do not accept insurance but can provide superbills and work with you to navigate out-of-network benefits so you can receive partial reimbursement. Many people who have PPOs don’t realize this is an option.
A good first step to find out your options is to call your insurance (the number on the back of your card) and ask:
Do you accept superbills
Can I use an out-of-network provider?
How do I submit them (i.e.online, mail, etc.)?
How much will you reimburse?
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You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical and mental health care will cost.Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the expected charges for medical services, including psychotherapy services.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency healthcare services, including psychotherapy services. You can ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule a service. If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good FaithEstimate.
For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate,
visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.
Connect
I offer both in-person and virtual sessions through a secure HIPAA-compliant online portal (clients must reside in California).