Pacifica, CA & telehealth across California
When you are anxious, overwhelmed, or shutting down, and nothing you try seems to help.
I help preteen, teens, and adults in their 20s and 30s manage their anxiety, ADHD, and rebuild self-esteem in a warm space with no judgment and real practical tools.
Book a free 15-minute consultation
Does this sound familiar?
Whether you're a parent worried about your child, or an adult in their 20s or 30s carrying more than you let on, you don't have to figure this out alone.
- "My teenager is anxious all the time and won't talk to me."
- "School feels impossible, focus, deadlines, the pressure."
- "I feel like I'm not good enough, no matter what I do."
- "The worry doesn't switch off, even at night."
- "Things with friends or family keep falling apart."
- "We've tried things, and nothing seems to stick."
How therapy with me works
We start by understanding what's actually going on, not just the symptoms, but the whole picture. From there we build practical, doable skills together, at a pace that feels safe.
Anxiety & overwhelm
Tools to quiet a racing mind, manage panic and worry, and feel steady again, using CBT and ACT, not just "talking about it."
ADHD & school stress
Practical strategies for focus, organization, and the pressure of school, built around how this brain actually works.
Self-esteem & identity
Space to untangle the "I'm not good enough" story and build a steadier, kinder sense of self.
Family & peer relationships
Support through conflict, friendships, and the hard parts of growing up, for the young person and, where helpful, the family.
A warm, no-judgment place to start
I'm Ester Uvaydova, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Pacifica, working with clients across California by telehealth. My approach is warm and collaborative, I draw on CBT, ACT, DBT skills, and strengths-based work, and I tailor everything to the person in front of me.
The hardest step is often the first one. A short, free conversation can tell you a lot about whether we're the right fit, no pressure either way.
More about me & my approachYou don't need to have it all figured out before reaching out. That's what the first conversation is for.
Common questions
How involved are parents?
It depends on the young person's age and needs. With preteens and younger teens I keep families appropriately involved; with adults in their 20s and 30s I follow their lead. We'll talk about what makes sense for you on the first call.
How much does it cost, and do you take insurance?
Individual sessions are $165, with a limited sliding scale. I'm in-network with several major plans and available through Headway. Full details are on the Fees & Insurance page.
How long does therapy take?
There's no fixed answer, some people come for a focused stretch around a specific challenge, others stay longer. We'll check in regularly so it always feels worth your time.
Ready to take the first step?
Free 15-minute consultation. We'll talk about what's going on and whether working together makes sense, no commitment.
Book your free consultation