Dr. Cortez is a licensed psychologist holding a doctorate degree in applied clinical psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Dr. Cortez has extensive experience in effectively addressing mental health conditions in men and women including depression, anxiety, substance use, adjustment difficulty, identity development, relationships, aging, chronic pain and loss. Her therapeutic approach is interactive, insightful and a collaborative approach with her clients to reach clearly defined treatment goals. Her primary approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy and Existential Approaches, with treatment tailor-made and designed to help clients achieve fulfilling and authentic lives. As a member in good standing of both the California Psychological Association and American Psychological Association, Dr. Cortez is a nominated honoree of the American Psychological Association’s Division 35, recognized for its diversity among women and their experiences based on ethnicity, culture, language, socioeconomic status, age, and sexual orientation. Her published dissertation focused on The Subjective Lived Experiences of Midlife Women and the Process of Empowerment, Post-Divorce. She is an ongoing advocate and practitioner of evidence-based treatment.