About the Founder

Debora Ribas-Santos, LCSW

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.