I’m Dr. Yesenia Teran, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, based in California. My work is rooted in compassion, cultural humility, and a deep belief in the healing power of relationships and community.

I specialize in supporting individuals and families navigating complex emotional, relational, and medical challenges. Much of my work has focused on people living with chronic medical conditions, including those impacted by HIV/AIDS, as well as members of the LGBTQ+ community. I also bring an attachment-based lens to therapy, helping clients explore how past relationships shape their current experiences.

A significant part of my practice includes conducting immigration psychological evaluations for hardship waivers, asylum cases, VAWA petitions, U and T visas, and cancellation of removal. This work is deeply personal to me. I once sat across from an evaluator as a petitioner on behalf of a loved one. That experience shaped how I approach these assessments: with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to creating a supportive, trauma-informed space for individuals and families navigating the immigration process.

Beyond the therapy room, I serve as an adjunct professor in graduate therapy programs. I’m passionate about training future therapists to approach their work with both critical insight and compassionate care.

Whether I’m providing therapy, teaching, or conducting evaluations, my goal is always to hold space for healing, empowerment, and growth.