About Me
Helping Others Is A Family Tradition
My father is the reason I’ve always had a strong desire to help others. He was a cardiologist in Italy before he emigrated to the U.S. and became an internist. When I was younger, he would sometimes take me to visit the children he treated and let me pick out toys for them. I was inspired by the rapport he had with his patients and witnessed firsthand the positive ripple effect helping others could have.
My dad was my mentor. Although I didn’t have the stomach to pursue medicine, I knew that I wanted to follow in his footsteps. As a therapist, I enjoy the opportunity to use my empathy and compassion to help others during challenging times. I feel honored that my clients are willing to let their guard down and allow me into their world.
My Background
Early on in my training to become a therapist, I was fortunate to have completed an internship at a residential treatment facility in Compton. It was a humbling experience working with a segment of the population who, although had few resources to speak of, were resilient in the challenges they faced. This experience reinforced my belief that everyone in our society needs and deserves care, no matter their circumstances.
My Practice
My specialty is working with teens and adults of all ages who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, co-dependency issues, or experiencing life transitions. I have an integrative approach to best fit the needs and goals of my clients. Because each client is unique, I don’t have a cookie-cutter approach to modalities and treatment plans.
My clinical foundation is rooted in psychoanalytic theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and humanistic theories. I strive to offer a collaborative, non-judgmental, and empowering space to help clients get released from their old patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving so they can move towards a more fulfilling life. I aim to make therapy sessions a nurturing space that allows clients to explore whatever issues are coming up for them.
Therapy helps us uncover our strengths and learn new skills to help manage life’s challenges. Ultimately, therapy teaches us that there isn’t anything wrong with us; we are a product of our circumstances. Understanding this simple yet powerful truth helps take away self-blame and remind them that they’re worthy. The work they do in therapy helps clients find ways to move beyond their circumstances.
My dad taught me the gift of listening. Listening to others is a true act of love that allows a safe space for someone to be truly seen. As my Dad would say, “If you’re truly listening to your clients, you won’t have to write anything down.” Being a therapist is my way of honoring my father and keeping his gift of healing alive. His legacy of helping others has given me a passion for what I do.
A Little More About Me
Hanging out with pets has also been a lifelong passion of mine. Not only have they taught me to be present, but they also remind me to take time to play. Although I’ve always considered myself a dog person, I have recently adopted a stray cat and am learning more about the ways of the feline.
Claudia Imparato is a therapist based in Redondo Beach, California. After receiving a bachelor’s degree of Science in Psychology, Claudia went on to receive a Master’s of Arts in Counseling. Thereafter she became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
Over the years, Claudia gained experience working in underserved communities. She has worked as an intensive in-home family therapist for lower-income residential districts, a school-based counselor providing educational support and advocacy for children and their families, and a residential group home therapist providing individual, family reunification, and group therapy services. Claudia is currently in private practice providing individual and couples counseling services.