About Irene Alvarez de Schwartz, LMFT
A therapist grounded in empathy, clarity, and purpose.
Why I Became a Therapist
My path to becoming a therapist started with a deep belief in the human capacity to grow through struggle. I’ve witnessed how pain, when met with compassion, can become a source of resilience and self-discovery. That belief only deepened as I moved through different cultures and communities, where I saw how universal — and yet deeply personal — our emotional experiences are.
Over time, I felt called to create the kind of space I would’ve wanted during my own challenging chapters: one that’s warm, grounded, and without judgment. Today, it’s a privilege to walk alongside clients as they navigate life’s complexity — not by fixing them, but by helping them reconnect with their strength and their voice.
“Irene made me feel seen from the very first session. I didn’t have to explain everything perfectly — she just got it. Her calm, grounded presence helped me open up in a way I hadn’t been able to before.”
What It’s Like to Work With Me
Therapy with me is a collaborative process — never a lecture. I meet you with warmth, curiosity, and a deep respect for your pace and your story. I draw from person-centered, integrative, and mindfulness-based approaches, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals.
I also integrate DBT-informed techniques when helpful, especially for emotional regulation, boundary setting, and navigating relationship dynamics. Whether you need structure, space to explore, or both — we’ll shape a path forward together.
Healing begins with feeling truly seen. I aim to offer that — not with perfection, but with presence. Clients often say they feel more grounded and understood after our sessions.
Outside the Therapy Room
Outside of therapy, I love being near the ocean — walking along the coast or just sitting with a good book and the sound of the waves. I find peace in cooking for my family, experimenting with new ingredients, or sharing slow meals together. I also enjoy painting when I have the time, even if it’s just for myself. Having lived in several countries and different parts of the U.S., I’m always curious about people’s stories — how culture, language, and experience shape who we are.
Let’s Connect
Therapy can be a turning point — not because life gets easier overnight, but because you don’t have to carry it alone. If you're curious about working together, I invite you to schedule a free 15-minute consultation. We’ll talk briefly about what you're looking for and see if it feels like a good fit.
Maria Irene Alvarez de Schwartz, LMFT 155789
(949) 385-3689
Newport Beach Office
1000 Quail St., Suite 220
Laguna Beach Office
333 3rd St #6
Online Therapy
California Residents Only
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