Alexandra De Castro Basto

Alexandra De Castro Basto is a licensed marriage and family therapist with 18 years of practice in California. She focuses on helping people who are feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. She also supports those dealing with bipolar mood challenges and family-related tensions. Her style is warm and direct, and she aims to meet people where they are.

Her work emphasizes respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Sessions are shaped around each person’s needs rather than a one-size approach. She listens for what matters most to you and tailors the conversation and plan accordingly. That can mean focusing on communication habits, exploring family-of-origin patterns, or strengthening self-worth.

Alexandra pays attention to practical steps as well as emotional understanding. She helps people notice patterns like codependency, attachment struggles, and isolation, then tries small changes that add up. For people facing divorce and separation she can help untangle emotions and improve daily coping.

She also brings experience with substance-related issues and mood disorders, working to reduce shame and build clearer choices. Her approach values collaboration, so clients take part in shaping goals and next steps.

Taking the first step can feel hard, and she acknowledges that courage. The process begins with a short matching questionnaire and scheduling, so you can start with a plan that fits your situation.

Approaches that guide online work and choice

Alexandra uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on emotional understanding and practical change. One common approach she uses helps people recognize and shift unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns; this approach supports symptom reduction for anxiety and depression and creates everyday coping tools. Another strand of her work centers on attachment and relationship patterns, looking at how past family dynamics shape current communication and closeness challenges.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Alexandra will talk with you about your goals and preferences, try methods that fit your situation, and adjust the plan as you go. The focus is on what helps you make steady, manageable progress rather than a fixed agenda.

The practical benefits of online therapy can include easier fitting of sessions into a busy schedule, shorter check-ins when needed, and fewer logistical barriers to getting care. Since session formats were not specified in the biography, confirm the available formats before booking so you know how appointments will be held. Licensed professionals, including therapists, often use different ways to connect with clients, and Alexandra will work with you to choose what suits your life and goals.