
Cynthia Manuel-Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, EdM (she, her)
Verified by Psychology Today Verified by Psychology Today
7 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95119
Let's Connect (408) 676-1036

Does it feel like you're constantly pulled between giving everything to your newborn and being a devoted daughter? As a new mom in your late 30s or early 40s, you built your life on achievement — from your thriving Bay Area career to caring for your family. Your internal voice is saying things like, 'Am I doing enough?' or 'Should I be doing more?' or 'Family always comes first . . .' Sound familiar?
I help moms over 36 with a newborn at home ease into motherhood, release perfectionism and guilt, reconnect with their own instincts, and create their personal rhythm of mothering that honors what feels authentic to them.
In our work together, we'll blend evidence-based practices with cultural wisdom. I've trained with leading maternal mental health experts and understand the profound changes of pregnancy and postpartum life. Our sessions feel like real conversations, where we'll untangle those "should" thoughts and help you trust your path while embracing your roots.
When I'm not in session, I recharge by listening to 90's hip-hop to classical concertos, trying to create "healthy" Filipino meals, and enjoying unhurried moments with my family. I understand firsthand the delicate balance of honoring traditional family values while creating your own path in motherhood. Curious to learn more? I'd love to hear your story.
Call or Email Cynthia Manuel-Shah now for a free 15 minute consultation - (408) 676-1036
Let's Connect (408) 676-1036

Finances
Fees
- Individual Sessions $225
Payment Methods
Cash, Check, Mastercard, VisaInsurance
- Out of Network

Cynthia Manuel-Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, EdM
Check fees and, if listed, ask to verify your insurance coverage. Email or (408) 676-1036
Qualifications
- Verified by Psychology Today Licensed by State of California / 79289 Cynthia Manuel-Shah
- In Practice for 11 years
- Attended Columbia University, MA, EdM, Graduated 2007
- Membership with American Counseling Association
- Membership with Postpartum Support International
Education and Years In Practice
Additional Credentials
Specialties and Expertise
Top Specialties
- Women's Issues
- Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
- Life Transitions
Expertise
- Anxiety
- Coping Skills
- Depression
- Grief
- Infertility
- LGBTQ+
- Mood Disorders
- Peer Relationships
- Racial Identity
- Relationship Issues
- School Issues
- Self Esteem
- Stress
7 Endorsements
Client Focus
Age
Adults
Participants
Individuals
Communities
Queer Allied ,
Racial Justice Allied
Ethnicity
Asian ,
Other Racial or Ethnic Background
Age
Adults
Participants
Individuals
Communities
Queer Allied ,
Racial Justice Allied
Ethnicity
Asian ,
Other Racial or Ethnic Background
Treatment Approach
Types of Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
- Compassion Focused
- Culturally Sensitive
- Eclectic
- Multicultural
- Psychodynamic
- Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)
- Strength-Based
Location
Nearby Areas
Cities
Counties
Neighborhoods

Cynthia Manuel-Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, EdM
Call for a free consultation now - (408) 676-1036