About Me
I'm Brenda Hidalgo, an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist based in Pacifica, California. I offer in-person and telehealth psychotherapy throughout California.
As a Latina therapist and member of the LGBTQ+ community, I understand what it's like to navigate identity, belonging, and the challenges that come with both. I bring this awareness, along with professional training, to our work together.
Clients often describe me as caring, warm, and collaborative. I aim to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and empowered to engage in your own healing process.
I believe therapy is most effective when it's a partnership. I value the time we spend together and take time to understand you. We will work together to establish individual goals that feel meaningful to you.
Professional Background
Private Practice
Specializing in trauma, eating disorders, and substance use
Crisis Residential Specialist
Momentum for Health — providing crisis support and stabilization services
Santa Clara University
Master's in Counseling Psychology
San Francisco State University
Bachelor's degree in Psychology
Community Mental Health
Work with diverse populations and coordination with regional centers
Therapeutic Approaches
I draw from multiple evidence-based approaches, tailoring our work to what fits you best:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Understanding the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Building skills for emotional regulation and distress tolerance
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Moving toward what matters while accepting difficult experiences
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Understanding and healing different parts of yourself
Trauma-Focused Approaches
Processing difficult experiences safely and at your pace
Art Therapy-Informed
Using creative expression as part of the healing process
Credentials & Training
License Information
Type: Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT)
License Number: #160629
State: California
Supervisor: Raquel Buchman, LMFT
Supervisor License: #118976
Specializations
- •Trauma and PTSD
- •Eating Disorders
- •Substance Use
- •LGBTQ+ Affirming Care
- •Culturally Sensitive Practice
A Bit About Me
Outside of the therapy room, I value connection, creativity, and time in nature. The Pacifica coast is one of my favorite places to find peace and perspective — qualities I hope to bring to our work together.