Therapist in Chula Vista, California Harriet Esquivel, Therapist

Harriet Esquivel, LMFT, helps teens and adults across California develop practical skills to manage emotional challenges, strengthen relationships, and improve overall mental wellness. As a Marriage & Family Therapist at LifeStance Health, she provides individual therapy for adolescents, teens, and adults with navigating concerns such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. Harriet creates a supportive, collaborative environment where patients feel empowered to better understand themselves, build resilience, and make meaningful changes in their daily lives. Harriet’s approach is compassionate, structured, and tailored to everyone’s needs. She works closely with patients experiencing difficulties related to mood disorders, stress, and life transitions, offering guidance that promotes both insight and actionable progress. She has experience supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community and strives to create a safe, affirming space where individuals can openly explore identity, relationships, and personal growth. Her therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques. These approaches help patients build emotional regulation skills, shift unhelpful thought patterns, and develop healthier coping strategies. Harriet’s work is grounded in helping patients apply these tools in real-world situations to support lasting improvement. Harriet believes that meaningful change comes from a strong therapeutic partnership built on trust, respect, and understanding. She encourages individuals to take an active role in their care while providing guidance and support every step of the way. Her goal is to help patients feel more confident, balanced, and equipped to navigate both present challenges and future goals. Outside of her clinical work, Harriet enjoys arts and crafts, reading, listening to music, and spending time with her family and her dog.