Your Truth, Your Journey
Specialized mental health care for queer and trans folks ages 13+
Meet Mandy Castanon, LPCC, LMHC
Hi, I’m Mandy Castanon (she/her), a queer, neurodivergent therapist who is deeply committed to creating a therapy space where LGBTQ+ folks can show up exactly as they are. I bring warmth, creativity, and a whole lot of authenticity into the room, drawing from my lived experience and my passion for supporting queer and trans clients through trauma, identity exploration, and the everyday challenges of being human.
My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in the belief that you deserve a space where you don’t have to over-explain yourself. Whether we’re untangling old wounds, building new skills, or just figuring out how to get through the week, my goal is to help you feel seen, supported, and empowered.
When I’m not in session, you can usually find me crocheting cozy creations, tending to my plants, or hanging out with my cats—anything that helps me slow down, reconnect, and bring my best self back into the therapy space.
I’d love to meet you when you’re ready!
My approach
Lots of people see therapy as a one-sided experience with little or no chance to interact with a real person. I promise you, I am as real as it gets! I show up to every session as my true authentic self because I know how important it is to feel connected with and relate to your therapist.
With over 8 years of experience in mental health and wellness, I have worked in various settings to support those in need. Despite my passion for this work, I faced my own challenges with my identity, childhood trauma, and learning to navigate a world who doesn’t see or accept all of me.
My therapeutic approach is all about you—what works best for you, where you’re at, and how we can move forward together. I take a client-centered, empathic approach, meaning I’m here to listen, understand, and help you lead the way in your healing. I believe in building a strong connection between us so you feel supported and empowered throughout the process.
I use an attachment-based lens to understand how your past relationships and experiences shape who you are today, and I offer trauma-informed care using EMDR to help you process any past wounds safely and effectively. I also bring in empowering approaches like feminist and existentialist therapies, helping you explore your identity, find meaning, and build your own sense of agency.
Throughout our work, my goal is to help you tap into your strengths and resilience, while supporting you in creating the life and healing you deserve.
What Kind of Things Can We Do Together?
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15 Minute Consultation
The free 15-minute consultation is your opportunity to get to know me and see if we’re a good fit for working together. During this short session, we’ll discuss your goals, what you’re looking for in therapy, and how I can help. It’s a no-pressure way to get a sense of my approach, ask any questions you have about therapy, and learn more about the services I offer.
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Individual Therapy (`13+)
Individual therapy is a collaborative, one-on-one space where you can show up fully, explore what’s weighing on you, and move toward the life you want with support and clarity. Whether you’re navigating identity questions, healing from trauma, or just trying to make sense of big emotions, therapy offers a safe, affirming place to go at your own pace. I specialize in working with queer and trans individuals ages 13+, and I help clients deepen self-understanding, build coping skills, and feel more grounded and confident in their daily lives.
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EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a trauma-focused therapy that helps you process and heal from past experiences that may still be affecting you today. By using a combination of guided eye movements and bilateral stimulation, EMDR helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories in a safe and controlled way. This therapy has been shown to be highly effective for those struggling with trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and other emotional challenges, helping you move from distress to healing.
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LGBTQIA+ Issues
Identity exploration is simply about having space to figure out who you are and feel good about it. Whether you’re sorting through questions about your gender, sexuality, or just trying to feel more like yourself, this is a supportive place to talk things out without pressure or judgment. It’s for anyone—queer, trans, nonbinary, questioning, or unsure—who wants help making sense of their identity or reconnecting with what feels true inside. Wherever you’re starting from, we’ll take it one step at a time together.
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Everything Else Inbetween!
Life is messy, and not everything fits neatly into a category, and that’s okay. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship struggles, trauma, or just trying to make it through the week, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Therapy gives you space to unpack whatever’s coming up, learn what you need, and feel a little more steady as you move forward. Whatever you’re carrying, we can work through it together.
Letters of Support
I know how essential and life-changing gender-affirming care is for queer and trans folks, it truly makes a difference. I’m committed to making sure financial barriers don’t get in the way of you accessing the care you deserve. As part of my commitment through the GALAP project, I offer two free letters of support each month for gender-affirming procedures, including surgeries and hormone replacement therapy, to help you move forward with your transition with support and affirmation.
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When you schedule an appointment, I’ll send you some paperwork to help me understand what you need and how my practice works. During our session, we’ll chat for about an hour, either in person or through a secure telehealth platform, and I’ll answer any questions you have. After the session, I’ll write your letter within 7 business days, send it over for your feedback, and make any changes if needed.
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If you need a letter for gender-affirming care, click the button below or contact me to schedule an appointment. I offer two letter-writing slots each month, and appointments can be done in-person at my Fresno, CA office or online across Indiana and California. You don’t need to be a current client to receive a letter, but if you’d like to work with me as your therapist, let me know!
What Other Therapists Are Saying
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"I’ve known Mandy forever, and I can say without hesitation that she is one of the most genuine, grounded, and coolest people I’ve ever met. As a colleague, she brings the same energy she brings to her friendships: compassion, sharp clinical insight, and a steady presence that makes people feel seen. Anyone who works with her or learns from her is truly in the best hands."
—Emily Boswell, PhD, HSPP
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"Mandy was a cherished therapist by so many kids when we worked together! She was wonderful with the families, open-minded and helped her clients truly unlock their best potential."
—Kara A. LMHC
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“Mandy is a caring, professional and responsive therapist! I have referred clients to her when I have been unable to see them. She has been invaluable as a colleague in the field. She is skilled, compassionate and a great communicator. Highly recommended!"
—Audrey H., LCSW
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“I have known Mandy since we attended grad school together. Her genuineness creates a safe and collaborative environment for her clients to explore their personal thoughts and experiences and discover strengths and solutions.”
—Jamie P., LMHC
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"As a fellow clinician, I am consistently impressed by Mandy’s professionalism, insight, and the compassionate care she provides. She has a gift for helping clients feel safe enough to explore difficult truths while also empowering them toward meaningful change."
—Alexis McFarlin Watts, LPCC
