About the Founder
Hi there! My name is Debora Ribas-Santos. Ever since I was a child, I had a strong desire to help people. Throughout my professional and personal life, my interactions with others have encompassed that desire.
My background education includes: a Bachelors of Sociology from San Diego State University and my Masters of Social Work degree from University of Southern California. In addition to my degrees, I am a trilingual (Portuguese, Spanish and English) Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide individual therapy and couples therapy as well as conduct culturally competent psychological immigration evaluations. To ensure I provide my clients with the most up-to-date practices, I attend trainings, workshops and conferences.
I have experience working with people from all walks of life. I have worked with children, adults and family; across various settings: schools, hospitals and other social service agencies. I have considerable experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, those who experience difficulties with life transitions and domestic violence. You can count on me to provide a nonjudgmental, warm, safe and welcoming therapeutic environment.
I opened Lighthouse Therapeutic Services in 2018 and it has been such a positive and wonderful experience. I originally had an office and once COVID hit, I transitioned to having a fully virtual practice. Transitioning to virtual came with its up and downs; however, as my passion for private practice grew, I knew I had more to give and decided to expand into a group practice. It is truly an honor to be a part of a person’s healing journey. I hope that we can live up to our names and guide you on your path to wellness.
License information:
California LCSW# 81269
Florida LCSW# TPSW1019
Virginia LCSW# 0904011799
Massachusetts LICSW #125877
Professional Associations:
National Association of Social Workers
National Latina Business Women Association
Amanda Cruz, MSW
Associate Clinical Social Worker
Jacqueline Boyadzhyan, MSW
Associate Clinical Social Worker
Marissa Hernandez, MSW
Associate Clinical Social Worker
Jesus Mendoza, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Elva Perez
Administrative Assistant
Sarandon Gilbert, MSW
Associate Clinical Social Worker