Not Your Typical Therapist …
Not Your Typical Therapist …
We have been there, done that, and worked really hard to create a therapeutic approach that actually works.
MEET YOUR SHRINKS
Alexandria Bekele
Founder and Psychotherapist
Alexandria founded Shrinks Corner as a departure from the conventional treatment paradigm. Drawing from her own experiences, she sought to disrupt the status quo. Her encounters with therapists during her childhood, marked by undiagnosed ADHD and unresolved trauma, left her dissatisfied with the dry, clinical approach that seemed more focused on observation than genuine connection.
Unlike a trip to the dentist, where a simple reward like a sucker can brighten the experience, traditional therapy sessions often left her feeling worse than when she arrived. At Shrinks Corner, the aim is to change that narrative. They want their clients to anticipate their sessions with enthusiasm, viewing them as opportunities for growth and learning. Just like at the dentist’s, they believe clients deserve a sweet reward for their efforts because therapy is hard work.
Despite the smiles you see on their website, there’s a deep commitment to clinical rigor at Shrinks Corner. Alexandria’s dedication to this seriousness springs from firsthand knowledge of the profound impact of untreated mental health issues and the lingering effects of unaddressed trauma and emotions.
Her career has predominantly focused on treating substance-related disorders and co-occurring mental health issues. These formative experiences as a clinician continue to shape her therapeutic approach today, underscoring the transformative potential of their work. At Shrinks Corner, they’re passionate about making a difference in people’s lives – because what could be more rewarding than that?
Alexandria's Approach, Credentials & Awards
MY APPROACH:
I am a psychotherapist specializing in turning sad faces into happy faces! I work with a variety of ages!
- kiddos with little bodies and BIG feelings,
- teens and young adults with existential crises galore,
- adults who don’t want to adult anymore, because life just became really “lifey”
- seniors who need comfort and support through changing times.
I value the therapeutic relationship above all and respect its healing power of it, however, I also draw from my arsenal of evidence-based treatment modalities. My favorite and most utilized modality is Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for behavioral cognitive change; while I utilize Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for the treatment of trauma. It is important to me that clients leave my office with tools, so I also assist clients in understanding how to regulate their emotions by integrating nervous system regulation exercises to improve their ability to tolerate difficult emotions when they are on their own. I focus a great deal on communication in session so my client can build happy and connected lives outside of therapy. Depending on the symptom presentation, I am likely to utilize multiple methods from my therapeutic arsenal…I am like Mary Poppins – I just pull out of my Dr. Bag whatever is going to get the job done and get my clients to where we want them to be…THEIR HAPPY PLACE.
EDUCATION:
Ali is an Associate Clinical Social Worker with a master’s in clinical social work (MSW). She is also Certified in the treatment of substance-related and addictive disorders.
- University of California Los Angeles UCLA ALUMNI – Go Bruins 😉
- California State University Fullerton CSUF ALUMNI
- Associates in Alcohol and Drug Studies
CERTIFICATIONS:
Certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) – Ali’s favorite treatment modality!
Certified in Sand Tray & Sand Play therapy – Let’s go play in the sand kids!
Certified in the treatment of substance use disorders. – I’ll hold your hand through this and sit with you so you are not alone in this… because the solution to addiction is connection!
AWARDS:
2008 PASS AWARD – The National Council on Crime and Delinquency presented Ali with this award for her work on media and community projects that focus on prevention and restorative approaches.
2008 – Los Angeles Area Emmy Awards – Ali received the Informational and Public Affairs Series as an Associate Producer for PBS Television’s SOCAL Connected.
2008 – Los Angeles Area Emmy Awards – Ali received this recognition in the Education category for her contribution as Associate Producer for the series, “Inside Locke High School”.
2009 Golden Mike Award – “Inside Locke High School” Documenting what was for years known as one of the most dangerous schools in Watts, where metal detectors were used at the entrance. For PBS Television, Ali and other producers documented and supported three students as they navigated the terrain of the notorious school where students were more likely to drop pout than graduate.
2009 – Los Angeles Area Emmy Awards – Ali received this recognition for her contribution as Associate Producer on pieces highlighting the effects crime and social issues for PBS Television’s SoCal Connected.
2011 – Los Angeles Area Emmy Awards – Ali received this recognition in the category of LA LOCAL COLOR for her contribution as Associate Producer to the biographical intimate portrait of Master Chef of the French Laundry, Thomas Keller titled, “Uncorked”. Ali found Chef Keller’s early life and career inspiring; how he overcame many of his own challenges to become the James Beard award winning chef he is today.
Esteban Juarez
LCSW, Clinical Director
Esteban Juarez, L.C.S.W., brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as Clinical Director of Shrinks Corner, Inc. Esteban also serves as one of the clinical supervisors for the Shrinks Corner team. His diverse training and certifications in modalities such as EMDR, TF-CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Critical Incident Stress Management reflect his commitment to providing comprehensive and specialized care to individuals across the lifespan.
As a practitioner fluent in both English and Spanish, Esteban demonstrates a dedication to serving diverse communities and ensuring accessibility to mental health services. His work with children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families underscores his versatility and ability to address a wide range of therapeutic needs.
In addition to his role as Clinical Director for Shrinks Corner, Inc., Esteban’s role as a Certified MSW Field Instructor and ASW supervisor highlights his commitment to mentorship and professional development within the social work field. By nurturing the next generation of social workers, Esteban contributes to the continued growth and excellence of mental health services.
As the Clinical Director for Shrinks Corner, Inc., Esteban plays a crucial role in enhancing the knowledge and skills of the Shrinks Corner team. By organizing specialized trainings and events, he fosters a culture of continuous learning and innovation, ensuring that practitioners remain current with best practices and emerging trends in the field of mental health.
Overall, Esteban’s dedication to providing high-quality care and his efforts to promote professional growth and development reflect his commitment to helping individuals and communities thrive. His contributions make a meaningful impact on the well-being of those he serves, empowering them to reach their true potential and lead fulfilling lives. Shrinks Corner is proud to have him assist in leading the team!
Maybe it is time you talk to someone…
and not just anyone…
It is time you got your own SHRINK! Schedule your complimentary 15-minute consultation … the first powerful step to improving your mental wellness and owning your happiness.
