Marty Caballero

You should not have to hide the parts of yourself that other people do not understand in order to be taken seriously in therapy. I work with adolescents and young adults ages 12 and older, particularly those experiencing anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harm urges, family conflict, identity concerns, social pressure or the feeling that they do not fully fit the expectations placed on them. Many of the people I work best with have been described as too sensitive, unmotivated, dramatic, difficult or chronically online. They may find belonging through gaming, anime, alternative music, fandoms, athletics, social media or other communities that the adults around them do not completely understand. My role is not to treat those interests as problems. It is to understand what they mean to the client and use that understanding to help therapy become more honest, relevant and effective. I also work with adolescent, college-aged and adult athletes navigating performance anxiety, perfectionism, confidence, burnout, body image, injury, family expectations and the pressure to build an identity around achievement. With a background in both social work and personal training, I understand that mental health, physical performance, identity and the body are often deeply connected. My approach is direct, collaborative, LGBTQ+ affirming and culturally responsive. As a third-generation Mexican American man, I am particularly interested in supporting Latino and bicultural clients, boys and young men questioning traditional masculinity, and clients navigating cultural, family, gender or religious expectations that may not fully reflect who they are. Therapy with me is not around pretending to be a "perfect adult". I may understand the game, anime, song, meme, lifting reference or online conversation you are talking about. When I do not, I will be curious rather than dismissive. My goal is to create a space where you can feel understood while also being challenged, supported and equipped with practical ways to navigate their lives.