Elicet Gonzalez

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Neurodiverse Couples Therapist & Reunification Specialist - Autism Background in Montebello & Newport Beach, CA

Specializing in Autism, Relationship Issues, Child Behaviors, and Family Dynamics

I provide therapeutic support to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My areas of clinical focus include autism, neurodevelopmental conditions, relationship & family dynamics, trauma, anxiety, depression, and parenting support. I am dedicated to supporting growth and well-being at every stage of life, with a strong emphasis on family systems, culturally responsive and inclusive care, and a neurodiversity-affirming approach.

What is it like to work with me?

I view each individual, couple, and family as having a unique path to well-being. My approach is collaborative, respectful, and rooted in your lived experiences. Using tailored, evidence-based interventions, we will work together to identify and pursue the goals that matter most to you, whether that involves improving mental health, enhancing resilience, deepening relationships, or fostering personal growth and healing. My intention is to meet you where you are and walk alongside you as you create lasting change.

Therapy for Children, Couples, and Families in Montebello & Newport Beach

My therapeutic approach integrates systemic, relational, developmental, trauma-informed, and person-centered models, all grounded in a strengths-based perspective that supports healing through connection. Well-being is deeply rooted in our relationships, both with ourselves and with others. In therapy, I strive to create a safe, supportive environment that promotes trust, authenticity, and meaningful engagement throughout the healing process.

Training & Qualifications | Counselor in Newport Beach, CA

Qualifications and Credentials

Elicet brings over 12 years of experience in the mental health field, where she has worked with diverse populations and a broad range of mental health needs across all ages.

  • Provided clinical support to children, adolescents, parents, and families across various diagnoses

  • Trained and served as a Developmental Play Interventionist using the DIR®/Floortime™ model

  • Led parent training sessions and facilitated social skills groups

  • Worked as a Social Skills Program Coordinator and Clinical Supervisor for developmental and curriculum-based programs

  • Developed and coordinated programs through the California Regional Centers, including vendorization processes

  • Completed over 3,000 clinical hours working with individuals, couples, families, and children

Elicet is passionate about delivering client-centered, culturally responsive care that supports meaningful growth and healing for every individual and family she serves.

Education, Certifications, and Clinical Training

Elicet is deeply committed to lifelong learning and clinical excellence, holding multiple degrees and specialized certifications that support her integrative, evidence-based approach to therapy.

  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Minor in Spanish – San Diego State University

  • Master’s in Counseling with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy – San Diego State University

  • Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy – Currently completing at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Certifications and Specialized Training

  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

  • Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS)

  • DIR®/Floortime™

  • Person-Centered Thinking and Planning

  • PEERS® for Preschoolers

  • PEERS® for Adolescents

Elicet is trained in systemic, relational, developmental, trauma-informed, and person-centered approaches, allowing her to tailor care to the unique needs of each individual and family she serves.

Outside of her clinical work, Elicet enjoys spending quality time with her family, hiking, taking walks, reading, journaling, and listening to music. She is also deeply committed to community service and regularly volunteers and tutors. These meaningful experiences ground her and reflect her belief in the power of connection, compassion, and lifelong growth.

When not with her clients...

Frequently Asked Questions About Elicet Gonzalez

  • Michelle works with children, couples, and families in Montebello & Newport Beach, CA. Whether navigating developmental challenges, trauma, anxiety, or family conflict, Elicet offers a compassionate and culturally responsive space grounded in structure, connection, and evidence-based care. Her integrative approach supports individuals, couples, and families in healing, building skills, and fostering meaningful growth at every stage of life.

  • Yes, Elicet is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT), which means she is pre-licensed and works under clinical supervision as she completes her licensure hours. This allows clients to receive high-quality care that is collaborative, trauma-informed, and often more affordable.

  • The Couples Therapy and Reunification Counseling is a private-pay practice. Elicet’s sessions are offered at a reduced rate to make therapy more accessible. We are happy to provide superbills or assist you in exploring reimbursement options through your insurance’s out-of-network benefits.

  • Clients who work well with Elicet are often navigating big emotions, developmental challenges, life transitions, or relational strain and are looking for a therapist who is steady, compassionate, and grounded. Whether you are processing trauma, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, or struggling to communicate with a partner or family member, Elicet offers a calm, culturally responsive, and collaborative space to work through it. She is especially attuned to clients who seek both emotional insight and practical tools and who value feeling truly seen and heard in the therapy room.

Get Started With Therapy in Montebello & Newport Beach, CA

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Office Address: 3524 W Beverly Blvd Montebello, CA 90640 (Los Angeles)

1001 Dove Street, Suite 270, Newport Beach, CA 92660 (NewPort Beach)

Hours
Monday 9am–6pm Tuesday 9am–6pm Thursday 9am–6pm Friday 9am–6pm Saturday: 8am - 4pm

Phone
(562)-774-6787

 

🚨 Important Notice: Emergency Situations 🚨

If you are experiencing a crisis, feeling unsafe, or need immediate assistance, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

For mental health emergencies, you can also contact:
📞 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Dial 988 (Available 24/7)
📞 National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233
📞 Crisis Text Line – Text HELLO to 741741

Our practice does not provide emergency services. If you need immediate help, please seek emergency support.