Monica Gutierrez , LCSW

Monica Gutierrez is an Arizona-native who holds a Master of Social Work from Arizona State University and practices as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). With seven years of experience, she has worked across outpatient and inpatient settings and currently contributes to a Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (VIOP) team. Monica focuses on supporting teens and young adults through periods of growth and transition, using a strengths-based, client-centered, humanistic, and family systems framework to empower both individuals and the families that support them.

She integrates evidence-informed methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care to address concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship and family issues, self-esteem, and coping with life changes. Monica prioritizes a strong therapeutic relationship and works to tailor each treatment plan to a person’s unique needs and goals, making the process collaborative and individualized.

Outside of her clinical work, Monica enjoys crafting, spending time with friends and family, and taking long walks with her dog, activities that reflect her commitment to balance and personal well-being.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Care

Monica uses client-centered therapy to create a warm, accepting environment where clients lead the conversation and the therapist supports their personal goals. This approach helps individuals find their own solutions and is especially useful for those working through self-esteem, identity, or relationship concerns.

She also applies Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help people identify and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns. CBT is practical and goal-oriented, and it can be effective for anxiety, depression, panic-related experiences, and mood-related challenges.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) informs Monica's work with skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT techniques can be helpful for managing intense emotions, anger, and patterns that interfere with relationships or daily functioning.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. Monica works with each person to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting the plan as progress unfolds.

Online sessions offer flexible options - video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging - that make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules, maintain continuity during life changes, and access licensed professionals from a distance.