Stella Galarza, Psy.D., LPCC

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California (LPCC4690)

Services I Offer

I provide tailored support to address your unique needs, including:

  • Therapy
  • Multi-lingual

Specialties

I offer support for a wide range of experiences, including, but not limited to:

  • Grief and loss
  • Trauma
  • Sexual disorders
  • Chronic Illness
  • Disability Adjustment
  • Domestic Violence
  • Anxiety/stress
  • Depression

Populations I Support

I work with a diverse range of individuals and groups, including:

  • Young Adults
  • Adults

Modalities

I use a range of therapeutic modalities to tailor my approach to your needs, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Psychodynamics 

Location & Availability

I see client's in person at our Claremont office and online across California.

I typically offer sessions Tuesday-Friday 9AM-8PM.

*Currently accepting new clients

Welcome!

I’m Dr. Stella Galarza.

Happiness is like a horizon. Perhaps you’ve been sprinting toward happiness, desperate to catch it, or perhaps you’ve been standing still, hoping happiness will find you. But the more you seek the horizon, the further ahead it moves.

You don’t need “perfect” happiness to lead a joy-filled, fulfilling, and meaningful life. Happiness is one of many tools we have in our toolbox—it can invigorate us and motivate us. But it’s not our end destination.

When you release the pressure of an idealized life and embrace the reality of what is, you open yourself up to a boundless well of hope, joy, and dreams. Your history is not a blueprint but a map, guiding us as we uncover the layers that hold you back. Together, we can transform your journey into one of profound personal growth and renewed strength.

How I Can Help

I work with individuals from all walks of life, including those facing disabilities, cultural challenges, and trauma. As a bilingual therapist with a Latinx background and extensive experience as a rehabilitation counselor, I understand the complexities of navigating unique histories and circumstances.

Using a client-centered approach, we’ll uncover and address the obstacles holding you back. My focus is on building resilience, restoring inner strength, and fostering meaningful change. I specialize in disability adjustment, life transitions, and trauma recovery. My goal is to help you recognize your strengths, equip you with effective tools, and support you in overcoming current and future challenges.

My interventions aim to help you develop a healthier lifestyle, connect with your inner resources, and enhance your quality of life. Together, we can turn your struggles into opportunities for growth and fulfillment.

Professional Background

My diverse experiences and education have fueled my passion for supporting others.

Here’s a glimpse into how my background equips me to support you effectively on your journey.

How I Got Here

With over 42 years of experience as a therapist, my journey began in Argentina, where I dedicated myself to supporting survivors of physical and sexual abuse and advocated for human rights through my work with UNICEFF and the Ministry of Education in Argentina. Upon Immigrating to the US, I continued working with survivors of sexual abuse and offenders as well as individuals with disabilities, helping them regain their footing in the workforce. Witnessing my mother's challenges as a visually impaired person and the achievements of my uncle, who thrived despite his blindness, shaped my belief in the power of hope and adaptation.

Now, in private practice, I focus on helping clients reconnect with their potential, including those who suffer from significant grief and loss, PTSD, ADHD,  anxiety, and other mental health problems

 

Education & Training

I hold my Doctorate degree in Psychology from California Southern University as well as a Master's degree in both Psychology and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Wisconsin.

Certifications

  • Psy.D.
  • MS - Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling
  • MA - Psychology
  • Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling
  • Post-Graduate Studies in Family Development

Outside of Therapy

When I'm not in session supporting clients, I enjoy…

  • Reading international mystery novels

  • Traveling the world with my family
  • Watching my favorite Sci-Fi, legal, spy, and mystery TV shows

Let's Get Started!

Finding the right therapist is an essential step, and we're dedicated to making it as smooth as possible. To help you discover the best fit for your needs, we offer every new client a free initial consultation.

Fill out our contact form to schedule your appointment with Stella Galarza. We look forward to embarking on this journey with you!

Phone: (323) 345-1402

Email: om@aspiretherapycenter.com

Telehealth available across California.

In-Person therapy offered in Pasadena, Claremont, and Sierra Madre.

Note: Our online contact form is not HIPAA-secure. For your privacy and security, do not include personal health information (PHI) or any sensitive details.