Clarissa Jovellanos, LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker #118233

Location: Online

Pronouns: she/her/hers

To my clients

Have you been feeling tightness in your body, restlessness, exhaustion, maybe constant feeling of being on edge? Are you currently navigating family pressure, cultural identity, stress, or the feeling that you have to be everything for everyone? – You are not alone and you are not doing anything wrong.

I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults from immigrant families who are navigating cultural identity, family expectations, and life transitions. Many of my clients experience anxiety, stress, or self-doubt as they try to balance honoring their family while honoring themselves.

My approach is collaborative and culturally responsive. I strive to center my clients’ lived experiences, creating safe spaces where they feel seen, heard, and understood. Therapy with me is not about fixing yourself or having everything figured out. It is about embracing the imperfect journey – leaning into the discomfort of the unknown and learning how to surrender from control. Therapy will challenge you, but I am here to help you feel more grounded and remind you that you are capable and that you are enough.

My Story

My name is Clarissa Jovellanos, a second-generation Filipina-American who was born and raised in San Jose, California. My maternal grandparents and parents immigrated from the Philippines to the United States in the mid-1980s. I was raised in a multigenerational household and grew up observing the layered dynamics of familial relationships that were maintained at home and abroad. Being a proud child of immigrants, I learned the importance of communal support and witnessed true resiliency; however, there was still that unspoken obligation and internal pressures to meet expectations. These lived experiences shaped my approach to wellness and healing, as well as deepened my passion to create space for emotional honesty.

I earned my Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Social Work at Seattle University. My professional experience spans 10 years centered around working with children, adolescents, and families in community mental health, school-based, and outpatient settings where I have provided both case management and mental health services. I utilize an eclectic approach with evidenced-based practices that include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy.

Being able to hold space and be fully present in my clients’ healing journeys begins with how I care for myself. Outside of therapy, I find joy in connecting with my loved ones, going on small adventures with my dog Kylo, spending time in coffee shops, practicing yoga and weightlifting, exploring local restaurants, and unwinding with my favorite shows.

I look forward to partnering with you as you navigate your healing journey and I will be there as you take steps towards the self you hope to become.