Compassion-Focused Therapy for Anxiety  | Millennial Theramom  | Johanna Lee

  Anxiety can feel like constant overthinking, a tight chest, or the inability to rest, even when you’re exhausted. And for many moms, this isn’t just stress. It’s also the weight of expectations, perfectionism, and the fear of letting others down. I help you meet your anxiety with compassion instead of criticism, so you can move from overwhelm to grounded confidence.

What is Compassion-Focused Therapy for Anxiety?

Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) blends mindfulness, self-kindness, and understanding of how our brains respond to stress. It helps you reframe anxiety, not as a flaw, but as a survival response, and teaches you how to respond with gentleness instead of judgment.

Common Challenges Addressed

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Signs I may be experiencing anxiety

 

 

Ask yourself:

  • Do I feel like I can’t turn my brain off, even when I’m exhausted?
  • Do I overthink everything, especially when it comes to my kids?
  • Am I always waiting for something bad to happen?
  • Do I avoid situations or people because I get overwhelmed?
  • Am I holding myself to impossible standards?

If you said yes to a few of these, therapy could help you understand what you’re experiencing and learn ways to cope with more compassion.


How I support moms experiencing anxiety across California

 

I blend evidence-based therapy (like CBT, mindfulness, and compassion) with culturally affirming practices for mujeres like you. Together, we'll explore how your family, story and cultural roots shape your stress, self-talk and overall mental health.


Common topics discussed in therapy for anxiety for moms

 

  • Replacing self-criticism with self-compassion
  • Setting realistic expectations for yourself
  • Navigating anxiety triggers in motherhood
  • Calming rituals you can use anytime


Ready to get started

Intake Session


We start with a gentle intake session where you can share your experiences and goals. This is where we begin to understand what you’ve been holding and what you truly need,emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.

Follow Up Sessions


Through ongoing therapy sessions, we’ll dig into your individual needs. I’ll offer tools rooted in mindfulness, self-compassion, and cultural validation,so healing feels like it fits your life, not someone else’s version of self-care.

Integration & Reflection Session-


We revisit how far you’ve come, name what’s changed, and create a rhythm of support for what’s next,so you leave feeling steady, not dropped.

(# of sessions will vary based on individual needs)

Anxiety therapy specialist in California

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Hi, I’m Johanna Lee, a licensed therapist (LPCC), mental health educator, and proud first-gen Latina. I work with moms and women of color who feel overwhelmed, stuck in anxiety, and like they’ve lost their sense of self. Together, we create a space where you don’t have to explain your culture, code-switch, or minimize your pain. Just come as you are.


Tips & resources for coping with anxiety

 

  • Start your day with one grounding ritual (like cafecito in silence)
  • Try 4-7-8 breathing when anxiety hits
  • Journal what your anxiety is trying to protect you from
  • Unfollow triggering social media accounts
  • Say no without explaining yourself
  • Let yourself rest (you don’t have to earn it)


Smiling person in a green sleeveless top, seated indoors with tattooed arms and hands resting on a pregnant belly

Hi, I’m Johanna Lee

A licensed therapist (LPCC), mental health educator & speaker who helps first-gen, Latina, women of color & new mamas feel seen, supported, and grounded in postpartum and beyond.

Investment: $150 per 55-minute session


Includes:


  • One 55-minute virtual therapy session
  • A copy of your individualized mental health care plan
  • Culturally grounded, trauma-informed support tailored to postpartum and madrehood

Book your first session

FAQ

How to reduce anxiety as a mom?

Start by noticing your triggers and allowing yourself breaks yes, even 5 minutes alone counts. Therapy helps you create simple routines to calm your nervous system.

How to stop feeling overwhelmed as a mom?

You're not meant to do it all. In therapy, we work on realistic strategies, emotional regulation, and support systems to help reduce that constant overwhelm.

Can compassion really help with anxiety?

Absolutely. Compassion changes the way you relate to your anxiety. Instead of fighting or judging yourself for feeling anxious, you begin to respond with understanding and kindness. This shift softens self-criticism one of the biggest fuels for anxiety  and helps your nervous system feel calmer and safer over time.

How can I help a mom with anxiety?


Start with empathy. Ask her how she feels and what she needs. If possible, support her in getting professional help therapy can be life-changing at any age.


Is anxiety always a disorder?


Not always. Anxiety is a natural response that helps us stay alert and safe. It becomes challenging when it starts to interfere with daily life or feels constant. In therapy, we learn to listen to what anxiety is trying to communicate often it’s a signal asking for rest, safety, or support not something “wrong” that needs to be fixed.


Good faith estimate

In accordance with the No Surprises Act and ethical standards for California-licensed therapists, I provide a Good Faith Estimate to all clients who are not using insurance for services.


This estimate outlines the expected cost of services, including session fees and potential length of treatment, so you have full clarity before starting care. While therapy is individualized and timelines may vary, this estimate helps you plan with transparency and trust.


You’ll receive your Good Faith Estimate in writing before your first session. You can always request a new one if your needs or frequency of care change.


For more information about your rights under the No Surprises Act, visit https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises


Disclaimer

This website is for informational and educational purposes only and does not provide medical or mental health advice. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 988 or visit your nearest emergency room.


Privacy Notice: Do not submit personal health information (PHI) through this site.

Therapy vs education disclaimer

Workshops, classes, memberships, community offerings, and educational resources are intended for education, support, and community. They are not therapy, do not establish a therapist–client relationship, are not a substitute for clinical therapy, and are not governed by my therapy license.


Licensed therapy services are provided by Johanna Lee, LPCC, under my California license through a separate intake and consent process, and are available only to clients physically located in California at the time of sessions. These services are regulated by the State of California.


License Number: LPCC 13089