Hidden Gems: Meet Sandy Allen of Sandy Allen Therapy and Counseling Services, Inc.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sandy Allen.

Hi Sandy , thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I am first generation Mexican-American, first generation college graduate. My career began unknown to me then, with hopes of helping my family of origin and myself grow and heal. I attended Cal State Northridge for both Undergraduate in Psychology, Minor in Sociology and received my Master’s Degree in Counseling, with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, I am so thankful of all the family, friends, mentors and experiences that helped get me to where I am today. A private practice owner that serves the Santa Clarita and San Fernando Valley in person, as well as throughout California online.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Getting to where I am today has not been an easy process. When I began my undergraduate studies in Psychology 25 years ago, the field of mental health was not what it is today. At that time the thought of seeing a therapist was Taboo, particularly in the Latino Community. In addition, the process of becoming a therapist is long 8 years of studies, 3000+ hours of clinical experience, and 2 state board licensing exams. Not to mention life happens along the way. I was blessed to marry and have my first born while in Grad-school, an adjustment I was not at all prepared for. Navigating my professional pursuit while managing home life has not been easy. Still to this day I look back at the young mother I once was and wonder how she managed to get it all done, but the calling for this professional vocation as a Psychotherapist, and the calling to be a mother and wife have been worthwhile endeavors. With love, support and some mild regrets, I did it, I pulled through with the grace of God. I am truly blessed to have had the opportunity to grow in my field of helping others as I simultaneously grew myself and my young family (now a family of 5). It provides me with real life empathy for the people I serve, to know that in all of us lies someone just doing the best they can to try to master life and love.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Sandy Allen Therapy and Counseling Services, Inc. ?
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. To say this career path is my passion is an understatement. I have dedicated over 16+ years, learning, researching, and working within various clinical settings to learn how to help people overcome their stuck points, emotional traumas, or present day life challenges. I specialize in treating postpartum depression, anxiety, relational problems, and trauma-related disorders. People grow and heal in different ways and at different paces. A motivating factor toward starting my own practice was the increased desire to provide quality and collaborative therapy that adjusts to the client’s needs (and not the other way around).

With a caring and non-judgmental stance I meet people and families where they’re at, and together help them heal, grow, transform, and obtain the quality relationships and peace of mind we all seek.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I am obsessed with my field. I love all thing associated with psychology, growth, relationships, spirituality, and healing. I read my first self help book at the age of 13, and grew up listening to Dr. Laura on am radio with my Dad.

Pricing:

• I accept various insurance
• I can provide out of network superbills
• I do have a sliding scale for those in need.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sandyallentherapy.com
• Instagram: @sandyallen_therapy