Mariel Nodado, MA, AMFT, PPSC
Mariel Nodado, MA, AMFT, PPSC
Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, AMFT #162706
(408) 214-5947
Supervised by Lisa Neves, LCSW 19725
Education/Degrees
B.A. Theology and Psychology, Philosophy minor - Franciscan University of Steubenville
M.A. Counseling, dual specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy/Professional Clinical Counseling and School Counseling - Saint Mary's College
Specific Professional Training
Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Counseling
Memberships
California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)
Meet Mariel
Hi! My name is Mariel, and I'm so excited to work with you! As a Filipina American, born and raised in the Bay Area, formed by the Catholic faith, I know how nerve-wracking it can be to approach therapy. After years of being told to simply be strong and keep the faith in times of distress, therapy can almost feel counterintuitive. It's scary opening up to someone. But I'll tell you now, I'm simply here to meet you where you are. In my practice, I am dedicated to creating compassionate, affirming spaces where children, adolescents, and families can feel heard, understood, and supported.
My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, client-centered, and grounded in empathy. Drawing from Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and play therapy, I help clients strengthen emotional regulation, build confidence, develop coping skills, and move toward meaningful personal goals. At the heart of my practice is the belief that healing begins in a relationship built on trust, dignity, and genuine human connection. I strive to meet clients with curiosity and compassion while helping them recognize their resilience, deepen self-understanding, and create lasting change.
My Background
I earned my Bachelor’s in Theology and Psychology from Franciscan University of Steubenville. Following my undergrad, I had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and their families in school and church settings. With more than 10 years of experience serving culturally and socioeconomically diverse communities, I gained a deep respect for each person’s individual story, clinical insight, and a passion to walk with others on their healing journey.
I completed my Masters in Counseling with a dual specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy/Professional Clinical Counseling and School Counseling from Saint Mary’s College. As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, my clinical experience includes individual and group therapy, crisis support, treatment planning, parent consultation, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. I have provided counseling in school settings, supporting neurodivergent youth and young people navigating depression, stress, suicidal ideation, social conflict, academic challenges, and life transitions. I value collaboration with families, educators, case managers, and other professionals to develop thoughtful, holistic plans of care that honor each client’s strengths, culture, relationships, and circumstances.
Areas of Focus
I enjoy working with children, teens, adults, and families.
Some of my areas of focus include: Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Emotional Regulation, Parenting Support and Family Dynamics, Building Self-esteem and Resilience, Grief, Loss, Adjustment, School Difficulties, Support for Neurodivergent Individuals (including ADHD and autism spectrum).
Fun Facts About Mariel
Baking is my favorite thing to do. I love baking bread, especially Filipino treats like pandesal and ensaymada. I'm new to the cooking world, but I'm really enjoying it so far. I also love catching live music, rock climbing, and spending time with my family.
