Dr. Estella Lerlo, LMFT

Dr. Estella Lerlo is a California-licensed LMFT with 14 years of clinical experience supporting adults through stressful and challenging periods in life. As an LMFT - a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - she draws on training in relational and individual work to assist people coping with stress, anxiety, relationship conflict, trauma and abuse, and intimacy-related concerns.

She creates an open, nonjudgmental environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared and explored. Her practice emphasizes empathy and practical support so clients can identify patterns, rebuild connection, and strengthen emotional resilience. Beginning therapy often takes courage, and Dr. Lerlo acknowledges that first step while offering steady guidance through the early sessions.

Clients who choose her work can expect collaborative attention to the issues they bring, with focus on clearer communication, safer relationships, and improved emotional coping. She aims to help people make measurable progress toward the goals they set for themselves while respecting each personâs pace and experience.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Relationship Support

Dr. Estella Lerlo draws from Attachment-Based Therapy to explore how early bonds shape current patterns of relating. This approach helps people understand fears of abandonment, attachment injuries, and how to build more secure connections in intimate and family relationships.

She also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - CBT - to identify unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and to develop practical skills for managing anxiety, stress, and mood. CBT offers structured techniques that clients can apply between sessions to reduce distress and improve daily functioning.

Emotionally-Focused Therapy - EFT - is another tool in her work with couples and individuals focused on emotional bonding. EFT helps partners name and respond to underlying emotions, repair ruptures, and deepen trust.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Dr. Lerlo collaborates with each person to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences. She adapts strategies over time so therapy remains responsive and client-centered.

Online therapy with her can include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for scheduling, accessibility for those who cannot travel, and continuity of care across life changes. These options make it easier to maintain regular contact and to practice new skills in real time with support from a licensed professional.