About Me!
Hi! I am so glad you're here!
My name is Dani Marianacci (they/them) and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who identifies as queer and trans. I provide HIPPA compliant, Telehealth services to clients throughout California and in person services to my LA based clients. I provide gender affirming, evidenced based individual therapy to teens (14-17) and young adults within California. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Coastal Carolina in 2017 and my Masters of Social Work from the University of Southern California in 2021. Since graduating, I have had the privilege of working in various mental health settings (i.e. crisis intervention, PHP/IOP programs, outpatient settings) that have been paramount in my clinical growth and knowledge within the field.
I'm passionate about supporting teens and young adults who feel weighed down by tough emotions, confusion, or self-doubt. Together, we explore what’s going on and find ways to move forward with more clarity and confidence. Some of the areas I commonly help with include (but aren’t limited to):
- Depression, sadness, and feeling emotionally overwhelmed
- Self harm and Suicidal Ideation
- Anxiety, constant worry, or feeling stuck in your head
- Low self-esteem, self-doubt, and inner criticism
- Navigating identity, including gender, sexuality, and self-expression
- Stress from school, work, or life transitions (like college, moving out, or “what’s next?” decisions)
- Family conflict or pressure to meet others’ expectations
- Difficulty setting boundaries or feeling guilty for prioritizing yourself
- Processing difficult past experiences
- Relationship struggles—with family, friends, or partners
- Feeling unmotivated, disconnected, or unsure of who you are.
Supporting LGBTQ+ teens and young adults is a passion that’s close to my heart. I offer a space where you can explore your identity without judgment—whether you're figuring out your gender or sexuality, thinking about coming out, exploring transition-related goals, or simply trying to understand yourself more fully. I especially love working with trans and nonbinary folks around gender identity, expression, and navigating the world authentically. We’ll talk about how your lived experiences have shaped who you are, how you show up, and how the world responds to you—while working toward a stronger sense of self, connection, and confidence. You deserve a space that truly sees and celebrates you.
My approach
My therapeutic approach is trauma informed and grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), while also integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Strength-based, Solution-focused, DBT/Mindfulness techniques, and Client-centered strategies to meet each person’s unique needs.
I believe in creating a safe, affirming space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported. In this space, YOU are the expert in your own life and lived experiences. I deeply value your innate wisdom. One of my strengths is building strong therapeutic relationships through my lighthearted, down to earth, silly personality that allow clients to feel comfortable expressing themselves as we work together toward growth and healing. I value collaboration — not only with clients but also with families, caregivers, and other providers — to ensure a holistic and effective treatment experience.
I'm not ONLY a Therapist!
I am a dog and cat parent! I have 3 dogs and 2 cats, Lola, Archie, Shaela, Izzy, and Bram! I am a avid animal lover. I love to cook and aspire to be a chef, one day integrating cooking/food, and mental health! I am a big time foodie. Also, I enjoy photography, traveling, and live music. What are your hobbies!? Let's integrate them into the therapy space!
What inspired me to do this work you might ask? Well, my own life experiences and the people who have helped guide me and support me during my lowest points have always been at the forefront of why I chose to do this work. I believe being given the opportunity to be apart of someone’s life journey in such a vulnerable and meaningful way is a deep honor and privilege.
