Therapists in Central, Mesa, AZ
Malaiya Ilene Liwag, Relational + Trauma
Counselor, MA, LAC, CTP
10 Endorsed
Central, Mesa, AZ 85204
I see clients in-person in Arizona and offer virtual sessions for clients in Texas. I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, AAPI communities, and life transitions. I understand the challenges that personal growth and healing may bring. I am dedicated to providing an all-inclusive, safe space for clients to explore and express themselves freely. Through a collaborative effort between client and counselor, I strive to help clients gain the necessary tools for greater self-awareness, understanding, and overall healing.
I see clients in-person in Arizona and offer virtual sessions for clients in Texas. I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, AAPI communities, and life transitions. I understand the challenges that personal growth and healing may bring. I am dedicated to providing an all-inclusive, safe space for clients to explore and express themselves freely. Through a collaborative effort between client and counselor, I strive to help clients gain the necessary tools for greater self-awareness, understanding, and overall healing.
I help children, teens, and adults who feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck. My approach is warm, trauma-informed, and grounded in EMDR, CBT, DBT skills, play therapy, sand tray, and art therapy. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can slow down, regulate your nervous system, and heal. Together, we work toward clarity, stability, and a healthier future. I look forward to meeting with you!
I help children, teens, and adults who feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck. My approach is warm, trauma-informed, and grounded in EMDR, CBT, DBT skills, play therapy, sand tray, and art therapy. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can slow down, regulate your nervous system, and heal. Together, we work toward clarity, stability, and a healthier future. I look forward to meeting with you!
I believe it is important for your voice to be heard. Relationships can be messy and complicated. Our voices can often feel lost in the chaos. I work with clients to help them be and feel, heard. In addition, I believe that no two experiences are the same. This means that even siblings raised together will have different perspectives of their childhood. These differences can lead people to define the world differently than others around them. I help clients to identify these differences and explore the behavioral and emotional impact they have on current relationships. I also offer a Christian perspective when desired by my clients.
I believe it is important for your voice to be heard. Relationships can be messy and complicated. Our voices can often feel lost in the chaos. I work with clients to help them be and feel, heard. In addition, I believe that no two experiences are the same. This means that even siblings raised together will have different perspectives of their childhood. These differences can lead people to define the world differently than others around them. I help clients to identify these differences and explore the behavioral and emotional impact they have on current relationships. I also offer a Christian perspective when desired by my clients.
Welcome! I see teenagers (13+), families, adults and couples. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, ADHD, relationship problems and life transitions, school and work issues, I can help. I am also trained in the Gottman Method to help Couples. If your relationship needs work on improved communication, conflict resolution, intimacy, connection, and regaining trust, I can help. I use treatment approaches such as supportive talk therapy, CBT, DBT, and EMDR in order to help your overall well-being.
Welcome! I see teenagers (13+), families, adults and couples. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, ADHD, relationship problems and life transitions, school and work issues, I can help. I am also trained in the Gottman Method to help Couples. If your relationship needs work on improved communication, conflict resolution, intimacy, connection, and regaining trust, I can help. I use treatment approaches such as supportive talk therapy, CBT, DBT, and EMDR in order to help your overall well-being.
You are most likely reading this right now because you're looking for support. I have been there too. I am here for you. With over 23 years of counseling/mentoring with individuals, families, couples and adolescents, I hope to bring an empathetic and hopeful approach to counseling with you. We can do this together!
You are most likely reading this right now because you're looking for support. I have been there too. I am here for you. With over 23 years of counseling/mentoring with individuals, families, couples and adolescents, I hope to bring an empathetic and hopeful approach to counseling with you. We can do this together!
From the time I was little, I have always enjoyed the art of observation and connection. I believe that everyone has a story to live however, the method is rarely similar and can be a pretty bumpy ride. I love listening and I love caring. While I am on the beginning steps of learning how to do this well, if you walk through my door you can expect a warm environment to be safe, seen, and heard. Healing, though at times may be difficult, is the beginning to living the life that reflects the beauty of who you are.
From the time I was little, I have always enjoyed the art of observation and connection. I believe that everyone has a story to live however, the method is rarely similar and can be a pretty bumpy ride. I love listening and I love caring. While I am on the beginning steps of learning how to do this well, if you walk through my door you can expect a warm environment to be safe, seen, and heard. Healing, though at times may be difficult, is the beginning to living the life that reflects the beauty of who you are.
I believe that every individual is worthy of respect and the dignity of their life should be upheld and protected. This belief system is carried through in the therapy room where I will work diligently to create a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. I desire to create an environment where you will feel safe, seen, heard, understood, and loved. I feel strongly that human beings were made for community and that we all struggle from time to time. As a therapist, it is my privilege to walk alongside you and accompany you in your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
I believe that every individual is worthy of respect and the dignity of their life should be upheld and protected. This belief system is carried through in the therapy room where I will work diligently to create a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. I desire to create an environment where you will feel safe, seen, heard, understood, and loved. I feel strongly that human beings were made for community and that we all struggle from time to time. As a therapist, it is my privilege to walk alongside you and accompany you in your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
My own healing journey began at a very young age. I have had many experiences throughout my life, teaching me that healing is possible. These experiences led me to studying and learning various therapeutic techniques such as: EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and Integral Somatic Psychology. These trauma focused techniques can help guide us through deep suffering and emotional pain, toward healing the mind, body and spirit. Even when your path seems darkest, there is hope and light along the way. It takes courage to face demons from the past and move forward with strength and hope toward the future.
My own healing journey began at a very young age. I have had many experiences throughout my life, teaching me that healing is possible. These experiences led me to studying and learning various therapeutic techniques such as: EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and Integral Somatic Psychology. These trauma focused techniques can help guide us through deep suffering and emotional pain, toward healing the mind, body and spirit. Even when your path seems darkest, there is hope and light along the way. It takes courage to face demons from the past and move forward with strength and hope toward the future.
With over 10 years of experience as a therapist, I have had the privilege of witnessing profound transformations in the lives of my clients. I use an intuitive approach to therapy, and focus on what is needed by each individual. With a strong foundation in Trauma Work, EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Relationship Counseling (EFT), I am equipped to tailor therapy to meet the unique needs and goals of each person. I have worked extensively with trauma, anxiety, depression, and couples. I also have a background in Expressive Art Therapy, Music, Nutrition, Integrative Mental Health and Spirituality. I incorporate these in therapy when appropriate.
With over 10 years of experience as a therapist, I have had the privilege of witnessing profound transformations in the lives of my clients. I use an intuitive approach to therapy, and focus on what is needed by each individual. With a strong foundation in Trauma Work, EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Relationship Counseling (EFT), I am equipped to tailor therapy to meet the unique needs and goals of each person. I have worked extensively with trauma, anxiety, depression, and couples. I also have a background in Expressive Art Therapy, Music, Nutrition, Integrative Mental Health and Spirituality. I incorporate these in therapy when appropriate.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of addiction, marriage and relationship problems, depression, anxiety, life skills, low self-esteem and other mental health issues. I have worked extensively with the following addictions: drugs and alcohol, sex and pornography, and compulsive gambling. I also have in-depth experience working with teenage boys and girls ages 12-17 as a Clinical Director of an adolescent residential treatment center. I also have taught master level classes at Arizona State University in addiction, individual, family and group counseling.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of addiction, marriage and relationship problems, depression, anxiety, life skills, low self-esteem and other mental health issues. I have worked extensively with the following addictions: drugs and alcohol, sex and pornography, and compulsive gambling. I also have in-depth experience working with teenage boys and girls ages 12-17 as a Clinical Director of an adolescent residential treatment center. I also have taught master level classes at Arizona State University in addiction, individual, family and group counseling.
Do you look like you have it all together—smart, ambitious, capable, but on the inside, it’s a different story?
Maybe you’re tired. Tired of holding it all together, tired of the pressure to perform, tired of the constant ache that says something feels "off"—even when you’ve done everything you’re "supposed to".
Maybe it’s relentless anxiety, a constant inner critic, or feeling alone even in relationships. You’re not broken. You’re surviving.
And therapy doesn’t have to mean reliving every painful memory. It can be a space to safely reconnect with yourself—on your terms.
Do you look like you have it all together—smart, ambitious, capable, but on the inside, it’s a different story?
Maybe you’re tired. Tired of holding it all together, tired of the pressure to perform, tired of the constant ache that says something feels "off"—even when you’ve done everything you’re "supposed to".
Maybe it’s relentless anxiety, a constant inner critic, or feeling alone even in relationships. You’re not broken. You’re surviving.
And therapy doesn’t have to mean reliving every painful memory. It can be a space to safely reconnect with yourself—on your terms.
I offer safe, compassionate healing and coaching services. I am a licensed therapist but work as an Integrative Somatic Practitioner. I coach to assist in trauma healing and boundaries. I also offer sound healing, spiritual and religious support, coming home to your body, can add children & family into your healing journey, mental health/SA/ED/PA experienced
I offer safe, compassionate healing and coaching services. I am a licensed therapist but work as an Integrative Somatic Practitioner. I coach to assist in trauma healing and boundaries. I also offer sound healing, spiritual and religious support, coming home to your body, can add children & family into your healing journey, mental health/SA/ED/PA experienced
You, your pain and the challenges that brought you here matter. Life, relationships, family, work, and just being human can be overwhelming and confusing. Sometimes it is difficult to see through the mental mazes our minds create. Sometimes intense emotions block our ability to see clearly. I offer a non-judgmental and honest space to explore your experiences. I believe each person can find the peace, fulfillment, and answers they seek and am honored to walk beside them on that journey. One of the most significant pieces to a good therapeutic experience is the “fit” between you and your therapist. I am caring and competent.
You, your pain and the challenges that brought you here matter. Life, relationships, family, work, and just being human can be overwhelming and confusing. Sometimes it is difficult to see through the mental mazes our minds create. Sometimes intense emotions block our ability to see clearly. I offer a non-judgmental and honest space to explore your experiences. I believe each person can find the peace, fulfillment, and answers they seek and am honored to walk beside them on that journey. One of the most significant pieces to a good therapeutic experience is the “fit” between you and your therapist. I am caring and competent.
Hello! I am Accepting New Clients. I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults experiencing an eating disorder, poor body image, depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, low self-esteem, anger, peer and family challenges, boundary challenges, co-dependency, stress, and life transitions. I utilize multiple approaches in my work, such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, internal family systems, family therapy, art therapy, prompted journaling, psychoeducation, and mindfulness. I am a LGBTQIA ally.
Hello! I am Accepting New Clients. I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults experiencing an eating disorder, poor body image, depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, low self-esteem, anger, peer and family challenges, boundary challenges, co-dependency, stress, and life transitions. I utilize multiple approaches in my work, such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, internal family systems, family therapy, art therapy, prompted journaling, psychoeducation, and mindfulness. I am a LGBTQIA ally.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with an enthusiasm for helping individuals, couples, and families improve their emotional well-being and relationships. With specialized training in family systems therapy, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients to explore their concerns and work towards positive change. Areas of expertise include individuals, couples, and adolescents.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with an enthusiasm for helping individuals, couples, and families improve their emotional well-being and relationships. With specialized training in family systems therapy, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients to explore their concerns and work towards positive change. Areas of expertise include individuals, couples, and adolescents.
I find that I work best with adults that appreciate humor, support, and a laid back approach to therapy. I enjoy working with adults by way of a tailored process to ensure that each of my clients is getting the most effective service. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, ASD, ADHD, self-esteem, relationship issues, trauma and PTSD.
I find that I work best with adults that appreciate humor, support, and a laid back approach to therapy. I enjoy working with adults by way of a tailored process to ensure that each of my clients is getting the most effective service. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, ASD, ADHD, self-esteem, relationship issues, trauma and PTSD.
Hello! I am accepting new clients and I see Children (ages 5+), Teens and Adults and have over 7 years of counseling experience. If you are in crisis, experiencing anxiety, depression, having suicidal ideations, school or work problems, relationship issues, or have complex trauma, I can help. I am trained in EMDR for attachment trauma. I also use breathwork, CBT, DBT, IFS, and mindfulness based skills along with talk therapy. For kids I use games, art, and play therapy for expression and coping skills. Building rapport and connecting with clients has always been important to me in building a successful therapeutic relationship.
Hello! I am accepting new clients and I see Children (ages 5+), Teens and Adults and have over 7 years of counseling experience. If you are in crisis, experiencing anxiety, depression, having suicidal ideations, school or work problems, relationship issues, or have complex trauma, I can help. I am trained in EMDR for attachment trauma. I also use breathwork, CBT, DBT, IFS, and mindfulness based skills along with talk therapy. For kids I use games, art, and play therapy for expression and coping skills. Building rapport and connecting with clients has always been important to me in building a successful therapeutic relationship.
You love each other, but damn, something’s off. You’re stuck in loops of miscommunication, mismatched desire, or unresolved resentment. The spark is flickering, the intimacy feels forced (or gone), and conversations turn into landmines. You want to fight less, connect more, and have sex that doesn’t feel like a chore or a mystery. My clients crave deeper connection and real honesty both in and out of the bedroom. They’re ready to stop pretending and start getting curious about what’s really showing up in their relationship.
You love each other, but damn, something’s off. You’re stuck in loops of miscommunication, mismatched desire, or unresolved resentment. The spark is flickering, the intimacy feels forced (or gone), and conversations turn into landmines. You want to fight less, connect more, and have sex that doesn’t feel like a chore or a mystery. My clients crave deeper connection and real honesty both in and out of the bedroom. They’re ready to stop pretending and start getting curious about what’s really showing up in their relationship.
Being human is hard, especially in relationships. I am an experienced individual and couple therapist who tries to make it a little bit easier. When couples find themselves stuck in conflict patterns and defensive moves, I can see through the messiness and recognize the good people who are trying to manage challenges in ways that make sense. If the idea of bringing up needs, wants, and hurts feels like walking through a field of landmines, or if it is hard to say the right words (or any words) without anger, defensiveness or shut down taking over, have hope. There is a pathway to feeling emotionally safe and being able to connect.
Being human is hard, especially in relationships. I am an experienced individual and couple therapist who tries to make it a little bit easier. When couples find themselves stuck in conflict patterns and defensive moves, I can see through the messiness and recognize the good people who are trying to manage challenges in ways that make sense. If the idea of bringing up needs, wants, and hurts feels like walking through a field of landmines, or if it is hard to say the right words (or any words) without anger, defensiveness or shut down taking over, have hope. There is a pathway to feeling emotionally safe and being able to connect.
It might seem impossible but, you can learn to love yourself. I provide a rich environment for learning and exploration of what is important to you so you can refocus your life and move forward with intention. Through counseling, you can learn to cooperate with your mind and body. With more than three decades in the fields of special education, parenting education, and mental health, I work with individuals, couples, and families to identify their specific needs and provide education to support progress toward their personal goals.
It might seem impossible but, you can learn to love yourself. I provide a rich environment for learning and exploration of what is important to you so you can refocus your life and move forward with intention. Through counseling, you can learn to cooperate with your mind and body. With more than three decades in the fields of special education, parenting education, and mental health, I work with individuals, couples, and families to identify their specific needs and provide education to support progress toward their personal goals.
Nearby Searches for Central, Mesa
See More TherapistsHow does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Central, Mesa, AZ
70+
Average cost per session
$141
Therapists in Central, Mesa, AZ who prioritize treating:
| 86% | Anxiety |
| 76% | Relationship Issues |
| 76% | Depression |
| 72% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 70% | Marriage Counseling |
| 63% | Family Conflict |
| 63% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 91% | Aetna |
| 91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 57% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Central, Mesa, AZ see their clients
| 82% | In Person and Online | |
| 18% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 83% | Female | |
| 17% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Central, Mesa?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.