Mabel Castro , LCSW

Mabel Castro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who brings thoughtful, compassionate care to people facing anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, low self-esteem and the aftermath of trauma. She named her practice Meraki Therapy to reflect a belief that therapy is most effective when guided by creativity, soul, and wholehearted intent. Her work with diverse clients focuses on uncovering the barriers to wellbeing and helping clients build practical skills to manage difficult emotions and restore connection.

Castro centers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in her approach, using structured techniques and between-session practice to shift unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. She also emphasizes a nonjudgmental, client-centered stance so people feel heard and understood while exploring sensitive material. Her practice supports healing from relational turmoil, addiction issues, compassion fatigue and life transitions, and she tailors interventions to each person’s needs.

She values transparent communication and strives to respond promptly to messages, which helps strengthen the therapeutic alliance. Meraki Therapy guides clients through trauma recovery, mood concerns and self-esteem work with clear, collaborative strategies and a focus on meaningful, sustainable change.

Approaches and online therapy options that support meaningful change

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is a practical, goal-focused approach that helps clients identify unhelpful thought patterns and test new behaviors. It is often used for anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship difficulties and typically includes skill-building and short exercises to practice between sessions.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) encourages people to clarify their values and take actions that align with what matters most, even when uncomfortable emotions arise. ACT can be especially helpful for managing persistent worry, low motivation, and challenges with self-criticism.

Client-Centered Therapy prioritizes empathy, active listening and a respectful, supportive relationship. This approach creates space for clients to explore their experiences at their own pace and is useful across a wide range of concerns, including trauma recovery and self-esteem work.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the collaborative process. The therapist will work with each person to select and adapt techniques based on needs, goals and preferences so the plan feels workable and relevant.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can take place by video call or phone, and many clients appreciate options like live chat or text-based messaging for between-session support. These formats make it easier to fit therapy into busy lives and to maintain continuity of care with licensed professionals when in-person visits are not convenient.