About the Founder

Debora Ribas-Santos, LCSW

Hi there! My name is Debora Ribas-Santos, CEO and founder of Lighthouse Therapeutic Services. Ever since I was a child, I have 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 Master 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. I am drawn to working with people with chronic illnesses and grief.

I opened Lighthouse Therapeutic Services in 2018 and it has been such a positive and wonderful experience. During the COVID pandemic, I transitioned into a virtual practice and later in 2022, I became a group practice. I decided to re-open my office space in 2024. It has truly been an honor to be a part of people’s healing journey.

When not running my practice or seeing clients, I care for myself by spending time with family, friends or her adorable rescue pitbull. You can also find me at a concert, local sporting event or traveling.

You can count on us to provide a nonjudgmental, warm, safe and welcoming therapeutic environment. I hope that we can live up to our names and guide you on your path to wellness.