A Little About Me

 My name is Emily Mendez, and I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in grief, loss, and life transitions. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, I support teens (ages 13–17) and adults as they navigate the emotional complexities of mourning and healing.

I believe that grief isn’t something to “get over”—it’s something we learn to carry with care and meaning. I utilize evidence-based approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Narrative Therapy, to help clients honor both their pain and their love.

I’m particularly passionate about working with teens and young adults, creating inclusive and affirming spaces where clients feel seen, heard, and supported. In addition to individual therapy, I’m developing grief support groups and expressive mental health content for young people, including The Grief Zine: A Survival Guide for Teens.

When I’m not in session, you’ll probably find me binge-watching something dramatic, spending time with my third daughter (our anxious but lovable dog, Roxy), or trying to keep up with my tweens and husband. I’m a big fan of comfy sweatpants, Diet Coke, and a good night’s sleep!

I believe that grief is a human experience that should be honored as a lifelong process, not a phase to move past. It is part of your story, not a detour from it. You are in charge of writing the next chapters.

Roxy watches over me all day, following me from room to room. She offers an unconditional love that I'll never forget. Roxy gives me gentle reminders (nudges and licks!) to slow down and center myself. She weighs 65 pounds, but wishes she were a lap dog!