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Marco Guillen

Marco Guillen

LMFT

California

Experienced addiction-focused therapist

Continue with Marco

At a glance

Credentials
LMFT
License
LMFT, California / 43686
Experience
20 years
Languages
English, Spanish
Location
California

Details come from information the therapist supplied to BetterHelp. A license can be checked with the state board.

    • Addiction support
    • Relationship help
    • English and Spanish

    About Marco

    Marco Guillen is a California-licensed marriage and family therapist with 20 years of experience. He has spent decades supporting people facing addiction and related concerns. He speaks English and Spanish and focuses on meeting each person where they are.

    Marco started his career working in clinics, hospitals, and schools. That early work brought regular contact with people dealing with substance use and process addictions. Over time he added experience helping with relationship strain, family conflict, anger, and self-esteem concerns.

    In sessions he aims for respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Conversations are shaped to each person's needs and goals. He uses practical strategies and clear talk to help people make changes they choose for themselves.

    His approach draws on Motivational Interviewing to build motivation for change, and on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. He also integrates elements from Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Client-Centered methods to support emotional regulation and personal values.

    People who reach out can expect a tailored plan and straightforward steps to try between meetings. Marco frames progress as a process and works collaboratively on goals like reducing addictive behaviors, improving communication, managing anger, or finding clearer direction in life.

  2. How Marco’s approaches translate to online therapy

    Marco uses Motivational Interviewing to help people clarify their reasons for change and to build their own motivation. That method relies on respectful conversation and helps with substance use, quitting smoking or vaping, and other addictive behaviors. He also draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which looks at the link between thoughts, feelings, and actions. CBT offers concrete skills for managing panic, mood shifts, and unhelpful habits. Client-Centered Therapy is part of his style as well, focusing on listening, empathy, and tailoring sessions to each person's values. Finding the right approach is part of the work. He will collaborate with each person to decide which methods fit their goals and preferences. That means checking in about what helps, adjusting techniques, and agreeing on practical steps between sessions. If you are considering online therapy, confirm the session formats available before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit meetings into a busy day, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. It can also let people join in from different locations while keeping weekly progress and homework consistent. Ask about current options when you match so you know how sessions will be scheduled and conducted.

  4. Areas of expertise

    Primary focus

    AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem

    Additional focus areas

    Communication problemsControl issuesDrug and alcohol addictionFamily problemsForgivenessImpulsivityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeMen's issuesMidlife crisisMood disordersPanic disorder and panic attacksProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Smoking / vaping cessationWorkplace issues

    Therapeutic approaches

    Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)Mindfulness TherapyMotivational InterviewingSolution-Focused TherapySystemic Therapy

    Experience

    20+ years

    Listed in

    California

    Languages

    English, Spanish

  5. Frequently asked questions

    What kinds of problems does this therapist help with?

    He helps people dealing with addictions, relationship and family problems, anger, and low self-esteem. Additional areas include communication issues, impulsivity, isolation, life purpose, and workplace stress.

    How would you describe his therapy style?

    He uses conversational, practical work that is tailored to each person. Motivational Interviewing and CBT are part of his toolbox, with an emphasis on collaboration and clear steps.

    What is his background and experience?

    He has 20 years of experience and earlier work in clinics, hospitals, and schools supporting people with addiction and related concerns. That long history informs his practical approach.

    What credential does he hold and where is he located?

    He is a California licensed marriage and family therapist, listed as LMFT, and practices in California.

    Can sessions be held in other languages or for international clients?

    Sessions are offered in English and Spanish. International clients are not currently accepted.

    Which session formats are offered?

    The original profile does not list specific session formats. Please confirm current session options before booking so you know whether online or in-person meetings are available.

    How are fees and billing handled?

    Cost varies with location and therapist availability. Sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

    What are the first steps to start therapy?

    Use the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist availability.

  6. Online talk therapy is not emergency or medical care. Stopping or cutting down alcohol or other drugs can be unsafe without medical advice. In immediate danger? Crisis numbers

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Marco Guillen Continue with Marco