Megan Jimenez, MA

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist 111766

I am a Psy.D. student and Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT 111766) with over 11 years of combined clinical experience. Throughout my work, I have supported individuals, children, and families in navigating trauma, interpersonal conflict, grief and loss, addiction, and emotional distress.

Through a collaborative process of listening, exploration, and reflection, I help clients manage symptoms of depression and anxiety, build self-esteem, strengthen communication skills, and move toward meaningful personal and relational goals. My approach is rooted in creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel understood and empowered.​

I prioritize a team-based, strengths-oriented approach that honors each individual’s unique abilities. By integrating evidence-based cognitive strategies with personal strengths, I aim to reduce distress while fostering resilience and long-term growth. Together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan designed to address current challenges and support lasting change.

Education & Training

I am currently pursuing my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and am completing my third year of training. I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University in 2018.

My clinical training spans a range of settings, including community mental health, school-based services, correctional facilities, and inpatient and outpatient hospital environments. I have also worked in private practice, residential substance use treatment centers, domestic violence shelters, and psychiatric hospitals.

My areas of specialization include trauma and forensic psychology. My dissertation research focuses on the impact of parental involvement on juvenile delinquency.

For the past two years, I have participated in Azusa Pacific University Psychology Global Program, providing mental health services in Kenya.

I am trained in several evidence-based treatment modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Seeking Safety, and Play Therapy. I have also completed extensive training in grief and loss.

Many individuals experience feelings of sadness, anger, stress, or disconnection at some point in their lives. Relationships can feel strained, and past experiences—especially those involving trauma—can continue to impact daily functioning in ways that are not always immediately clear. My goal is to walk alongside you in understanding these experiences, processing difficult emotions, and building the tools needed to move forward. Together, we can work toward healing, growth, and becoming the most authentic and empowered version of yourself.

Book dr. Melissa for your event

Dr. Melissa is a sought after presenter who engages her audience with energy, charisma, and critical information. She regularly speaks on the topics of ADHD, trauma, foster and adoption, attachment, child development, parenting, mental health, and faith. Inquire for more information.

Words from the families
we’ve walked alongside.

I had an amazing training experience with Therapy SoCal. Dr. Jinariu is an excellent supervisor and utilizes a strengths-based approach with her practicum students. I feel very confident in my skills working with trauma, adoption, and ADHD thanks to the... More

Erica Kirk, MA

former Masters level Associate

Dr. Melissa Jinariu is amazing to work with and I really enjoy collaborating with her. She works with families in high conflict divorce to help them heal and move forward. She is wonderful with children and incredibly intuitive. I appreciate... More

Emily Robinson, Esq.

Minor's Counsel

Dr. Jinariu is one of the most compassionate and knowledgable clinicians in the field of pediatric psychology. She truly cares about her clients and is an expert in trauma and trauma-informed care. Her standard of excellence is bar none.

Brooke Angaga

LMFT

Dr. Melissa Jinariu is amazing to work with and I really enjoy collaborating with her. She works with families in high conflict divorce to help them heal and move forward. She is wonderful with children and incredibly intuitive. I appreciate... More

Emily Robinson, Esq.

Minor's Counsel

Answers to your mental health questions

Faq

Need More Questions?

Yes. Therapy SoCal’s multilingual team offers services in English, Spanish, Cantonese, Armenian, and Russian. Language availability may depend on the clinician and type of service requested.

Yes. Christian and faith-sensitive counseling is available for clients who would like their beliefs incorporated into therapy. Faith integration is optional, client-led, and offered alongside evidence-based psychological care. Clients do not need to request faith-based services to receive treatment at Therapy SoCal.

Child therapy may help with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism-related needs, OCD, trauma, grief, disruptive behavior, emotional regulation, social challenges, family transitions, attachment concerns, and school-related difficulties.

The recommended treatment approach depends on the child’s individual needs and the results of the initial consultation.

Therapy may be helpful when emotional, behavioral, developmental, or social difficulties interfere with your child’s daily life. Signs may include persistent worry, sadness, withdrawal, intense emotional reactions, changes in sleep, school difficulties, family conflict, avoidance, or trouble recovering from a stressful experience.

An initial consultation can help determine whether therapy, psychological testing, parent support, or another service may be appropriate.

To request therapy or psychological testing, complete the form on the Contact Therapy SoCal page or call 661-904-0088.

Please include the type of service you are seeking, the client’s age, your preferred location or telehealth option, and a convenient way to reach you.