How Kindful Place Therapy Center Began
Kindful Place Therapy Center was founded on a chilly November evening at a café, where 2 friends, Ligia and Chisato, were discussing names for their new counseling center. Kindful came from a blend of mindful and kindness - two things that Ligia and Chisato both practice and encourage their clients. Looking around the café, there was an aha moment- they wanted to create a therapy space that was like a café… a warm, safe space to just be present, a place to connect with ourselves or others. This is where “Place” came from- and the Kindful Place Therapy Center was born.
Mission Statement
Kindful Place Therapy Center was established in 2024 with the mission to provide mental health and consultation services in California. Our mission is to decrease the stigma of mental health by fostering a safe environment, like a café.
Our Vision Statement
A community where mental health is celebrated and accessed to increase people’s well-being.
Learn about the co-owners/co-founders
Ligia Recinos, LCSW is a bilingual, second-generation Latina therapist enjoys working with first-generation Latino individuals, transitional-aged youth, and children.Her approach is culturally responsive, strengths-based, and tailored to each client's unique experiences. She supports clients in navigating identity development, life transitions, family relationships, emotional challenges, and personal growth while fostering resilience, self-confidence, and overall well-being
Dr. Chisato Hotta, DSW, LMFT, LPCC is a relational, trauma-informed therapist who works with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. She supports clients navigating trauma, anxiety, overwhelm, relationship challenges, and neurodiversity, with a special focus on children impacted by trauma, including commercial sexual exploitation and children who struggle to follow directions. Her style is collaborative, supportive, and engaged, with warmth and humor woven into the therapeutic process.
Meet our amazing therapists
Dr. Ramona Merchan, DSW, LCSW offers trauma-informed therapy in a safe, brave, and judgment-free space. She works with women, adults healing from trauma, foster youth and system-impacted young adults, and moms navigating the postpartum period. Her approach is client-centered, authentic, and focused on helping clients explore the roots of their pain and move toward healing.
Ramona Neri Escalera Ibarra, AMFT, APCC has over 8 years of experience working with children, youth, teens, and families. She provides a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space for clients navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and emotional distress. Her approach is collaborative, patient, and rooted in helping clients and families build resilience, healthy coping skills, and hope.
Adrianna Alexis Sepeda, LCSW is a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and evidence-based care. As a first-generation Latina therapist, she creates a safe, inclusive, and affirming space where clients feel seen and supported. She works with undocumented families facing barriers to services and Latino youth who are struggling with uncertainty, fear, and low motivation.
Contact Us
Address
Ethera Building
19712 MacArthur Blvd., Suite 110
Irvine, CA 92612
Contact
(949) 414-7959