Miriam Collada, LMFT, LPCC

Therapist

I am originally from Oregon but relocated to San Diego where I obtained my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy with Latinos/as at Pepperdine University Graduate School of Psychology in Irvine.

I pursued my Masters because I have always been someone who had a skill for listening to others and in some cases helping them; it was done so often that my parents who were divorced both individually would make comments about how I could be a therapist. One day after witnessing someone who often sought my feedback manage a situation on her own I realized how fulfilling it could be to not just create the space for someone to share what troubles them but to witness them grow.

Culture

During my graduate degree, I was introduced to Narrative therapy which helped me appreciate the impact of culture and systems that surround us. I have spent years gaining experience in helping people with neurodivergence, relationship challenges, and anxiety navigate the world.

I do not see myself as an expert on people’s lives or problems but someone who has knowledge and experience just like the people who come to see me. I approach therapy in a collaborative and curious way that includes using all of our knowledge and experience to identify some preferred directions people might want to go in their journey.

LGBTQIA+

I have worked with adolescents, adults, and couples. As an inclusive therapist, I have worked with the LGBTQIA+ community and supported them, as well as their families and friends, in understanding the importance of using helpful language to support one’s identity.