Lydia Afualo, AMFT (Accepting New Clients)

Accepting New Clients

Lydia Afualo, AMFT

She/Her/Hers

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families through life’s challenges. My specialties include couples therapy, family therapy, individual therapy, and working with trauma—particularly complex trauma—with a focus on marginalized and underserved communities.

I approach therapy through a blend of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, Bowenian Family Systems, and Gottman Method, all while attuning individually to the unique needs of each client. I also integrate Brainspotting into my practice, as well as mindfulness techniques, to support clients in connecting with themselves and their families on a deeper level.

With a Bachelor’s in Sociology, a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy, and currently pursuing a Doctorate in Behavioral Health, I take a holistic and systemic approach to therapy, recognizing that individuals’ struggles are often multi-faceted and influenced by a variety of internal and external factors. Additionally, I hold a Certificate of Diversity, which deepens my ability to work with and honor the diverse cultural backgrounds and experiences of my clients.

My goal is to help clients rewrite their personal narratives, focus on self-identity, and address family dynamics, all while building healthier patterns and reaching personal goals in an ethical, compassionate, and professional manner.

As a Pacific Islander of Samoan and Tahitian descent, born in Kahuku, Hawaii, and raised in Southern California, I value the importance of cultural awareness and personal connection in therapy. I believe in the power of attunement and a relaxed, conversational approach to create a safe space for exploration and healing.

If you’re ready to explore your personal growth journey and begin healing from the inside out, I would be honored to walk alongside you in this process.

My Interests

Areas of Focus

  • PTSD
  • Grief
  • Anxiety
  • Intimacy
  • Relocation
  • Depression
  • Mindfulness
  • Self-Esteem
  • Trust Issues
  • Life stressors
  • Life Transitions
  • Career Changes
  • Stress Reduction 
  • Family Systems
  • Communication
  • Personal Growth
  • Cultural Identity
  • Blended Families
  • Complex Trauma
  • Childhood Trauma
  • Emotional Healing
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Addiction Recovery
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Emotional Regulation
  • Parent-Child Dynamics
  • Cultural Competency
  • Pacific Islander Sensitivity
  • Holistic Health & Wellness
  • High-Conflict Relationships
  • Marginalized Communities

Populations

  • Couples
  • Families
  • Individuals
  • Trauma Survivors
  • Marginalized Communities
  • People in Life Transitions
  • Behavioral Health Challenges
  • Individuals Seeking Wellness
  • High-Conflict Relationships

Modalities

 

  • Brainspotting
  • Narrative Therapy
  • Systemic Therapy
  • Gottman Method
  • Bowenian Family Systems
  • Trauma-Informed Care Therapy 
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
  • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

Contact us today for a Free Consultation and Mental Health Screener