Loretta Odebiyi, APCC

Associate Professional Clinical Counselor #22806
Supervised by Michele Villarreal, LMFT #131287

Meet Loretta Odebiyi

Compassionate, Whole-Person Care Through Every Season of Life

Sometimes, you may appear capable and composed on the outside while privately struggling with anxiety, sadness, past trauma, family concerns, or the pressure of holding everything together. You may know that something needs to change but feel unsure where to begin. My goal is to offer a safe, compassionate space where you can slow down, feel understood, and begin moving toward meaningful change.

I am a California-registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) and a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). My experience in counseling, behavioral health, and nursing gives me a whole-person perspective on healing. I understand that emotional well-being can be affected by physical health, relationships, past experiences, family dynamics, and the demands of everyday life.

I completed my graduate education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Capella University. My clinical training included mental health assessment, crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, safety and risk assessment, domestic violence and substance-use screening, and the application of diagnostic criteria to support treatment.

Before entering the counseling profession, I completed my vocational nursing education at Bethesda University of California and became a Licensed Vocational Nurse. I have provided medical and behavioral healthcare since 2014 and have worked with children, adults, individuals with developmental needs, and clients from diverse backgrounds. Since 2016, I have worked at Kaiser Permanente, providing outpatient nursing care while collaborating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams.

My educational background also includes an Associate of Arts in Natural Science from Los Angeles Southwest College and a Bachelor of Science in Geography and Regional Planning from Lagos State University. Together, these experiences have shaped my appreciation for the physical, emotional, cultural, relational, and environmental factors that influence a person’s well-being.

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My Approach to Therapy

I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, chronic stress, family and relationship difficulties, and major life transitions. I recognize that symptoms do not exist in isolation. They are often connected to past experiences, unmet emotional needs, difficult relationships, and the ways we have learned to protect ourselves.

My approach is warm, collaborative, practical, and trauma-informed. I believe you are the expert on your own life and that therapy should respect your experiences, culture, values, strengths, and personal goals.

I draw from evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Person-Centered Therapy. Together, we can explore the thoughts, emotions, experiences, and relationship patterns that may be keeping you stuck. I can also help you develop practical coping skills, strengthen emotional resilience, reconnect with your strengths, and identify realistic steps toward the life you want to create.

My nursing experience has taught me the importance of listening carefully, remaining calm during difficult moments, and seeing the person beyond the symptoms. I bring that same attentiveness into the therapy room. You will not be rushed, judged, or reduced to a diagnosis. Instead, we will work together to understand what you are experiencing and what you need to move forward with greater confidence and hope.

Education and Professional Credentials

Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC), registered in California
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), California
Graduate education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Capella University
Vocational Nursing Program, Bethesda University of California
Associate of Arts in Natural Science, Los Angeles Southwest College
Bachelor of Science in Geography and Regional Planning, Lagos State University
Psychological First Aid certification, Johns Hopkins University
Member, California Association for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors
Member, National Society of Leadership and Success

Loretta Odebiyi, LVN, APCC #22806 provides counseling services under the supervision of Michele Villarreal, LMFT#131287 a licensed clinical supervisor.

Catholic and Christian Counseling

For clients who desire it, I also provide Catholic and Christian faith-based counseling. I recognize that faith can be an important source of strength, hope, identity, and healing. Christian values, prayer, and spiritual concerns may be included in therapy according to your preferences and comfort level. You will never be pressured to discuss faith, and people from all backgrounds are welcomed and treated with respect.

I believe healing begins within a trusting therapeutic relationship. My goal is to help you feel safe, supported, and empowered as you work toward greater peace, confidence, and connection in your life.