Helen Medina
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Welcome. My name is Helen and I am a clinical therapist practicing in California. During my last ten years in the mental health field, I have worked in various settings -- from hospitals and research teams to schools and outpatient therapy settings. I have a master's degree in Social Welfare from UCLA and a bachelor's degree in Psychology and English Literature from Cal State Long Beach.
If you are ready to make changes in your life and shift out of stress patterns, then I am here to walk beside you as you start this journey. At some point many of us experience anxiety, depression, loss, or trauma and sometimes the symptoms of these experiences interfere with our work, relationships, and everyday life. The good news is that change and growth is possible. Even if you don’t yet have the hope or belief that it’s possible, I do. You may know exactly what your goals are, or you might still be trying to figure it out; either way, I am here to guide you whether it is your first time in therapy, or you’ve been in therapy many times before.
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I work with adults in individual therapy and couples counseling. I enjoy working with young adults struggling with relationships and life transitions. I also have specialized training and experience working with trauma, including veterans as well as those who have experienced childhood trauma and sexual assault. I am certified in grief and loss and have worked with those experiencing suicidal ideation.
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Approach
My number one approach to working with clients is through respect and empathy. I put a lot of value in the knowledge and experience that you bring to our working relationship. I believe you are the expert on you, and I am a gentle guide to assist along the way. Depending on your needs, I work with various therapy models such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Mindful Self-Compassion, Walk and Talk, and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples.
Areas of Expertise
I provide individual therapy and couples counseling services to adults 18 years of age and older in the following areas:
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Anxiety
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Communication Difficulties
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Depression and Sadness
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Grief and Loss
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Life Transitions
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Relationship Issues
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Trauma and PTSD
Everyone can benefit from therapy. I have had the honor of working with clients from all walks of life and have watched them grow and achieve their goals.
It takes courage to reach out, call today to take the next step in your healing journey.
Couples Counseling
Reconnect and Heal—Together
Are you and your partner feeling distant, stuck in the same arguments, or struggling to communicate? You're not alone—and you don't have to stay in this place.
I work with couples using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), a research-backed approach that helps partners understand the patterns that keep them disconnected and find their way back to closeness and emotional safety. EFT focuses on strengthening the bond between partners by creating space for deeper understanding, trust, and connection.
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Whether you're navigating a specific challenge or simply want to feel more connected, couples counseling can be a powerful step forward.
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Let’s work together to rebuild your connection—one conversation at a time.
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Walk and Talk Therapy
Step Into Healing – One Walk at a Time
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Walk-and-talk therapy offers a unique, movement-based approach to healing—blending the benefits of traditional talk therapy with the grounding, calming effects of nature and physical activity. Whether you're navigating anxiety, life transitions, or just want to feel more connected and clear, our sessions move at your pace—literally and emotionally. Let’s take therapy off the couch and into the open air. Your path to clarity starts with a single step.
Benefits of Walk and Talk Therapy
Increased Comfort and Openness
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Being side by side (instead of face to face) can make clients feel less pressure, leading to easier conversations. Can be especially helpful for clients who struggle to sit still (e.g., those with ADHD), or who feel physically trapped in an office.
Reduced Anxiety and Depression
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Walking—especially in nature—releases endorphins, reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), and improves mood.
Enhanced Mind-Body Connection
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Physical movement can help "unstick" emotions and thoughts, promoting emotional processing and insight.
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Considerations
Lack of Privacy
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Sessions in public can be overheard
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Can potentially run into someone the client or therapist knows.
Environmental Distractions
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Noise and weather changes can interrupt or distract from the session.
Safety Concerns
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Potential for falls or slips on uneven paths
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Please note walk and talk therapy may not be appropriate for all clients.
I also require all clients to sign a waiver acknowledging some of the challenges to confidentiality and potential for falls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you seeing clients in person?
I meet with clients in-person at my Torrance office or virtually through a secure video platform.
For Walk and Talk we meet at a designated location after the first 1-2 sessions; initial sessions are either in person or virtual.
Do you accept insurance?
I currently accept Lyra and I am considered an "out-of -network" provider with other insurers. I can provide superbills that can be submitted to insurance for reimbursement. Please check directly with your insurance provider to inquire about your out-of-network benefits. You can also pay with a Health Savings Account/Flex Spending Account via debit card or a superbill can be provided for reimbursement.
What are your fees?
$175 per 50 minute session for individuals
$195 per 50 minute session for couples
What is your cancellation policy?
All cancellations of appointments should be made at least 24 hours in advance. If appointments are cancelled in advance there is no fee for the cancelled session. A $50 cancellation fee will be charged if you give less than 24-hour notice or no-show for a scheduled appointment.
Payment Options
I accept most major credit cards, checks, and Zelle.
Contact
Please email or text to schedule a complimentary phone consultation.
Office Location
3424 West Carson Street
Suite 500
Torrance, CA 90503