Margarette Lorraine Fernandez – Accepting New Clients
Margarette Lorraine Fernandez (She/Her/Hers)
LGPC | Adolescents & Adults (Ages 12–40)
Insurance: Cigna, BCBS, Johns Hopkins EHP, and Aetna
Location: In-person (Columbia Office) and Virtual
About Me
I’ve always been drawn to the power of a person’s story and how our unique experiences shape who we become. Growing up as a Filipina American between two cultures, I developed a deep appreciation for the complexities of identity, family dynamics, and the delicate balance of navigating different expectations. I became a therapist to create a space where people feel truly heard and empowered to make meaningful changes. My colleagues and clients often describe me in three words: empathetic, curious, and collaborative.
Therapeutic Approach
My approach is relational, goal-oriented, and trauma-informed. I believe that you are the expert of your own life, and my role is to support your autonomy while providing a mirror to help you see your patterns more clearly.
I draw from psychodynamic, person-centered, and systemic perspectives to explore how your past, your relationships, and your environment influence your present. In our sessions, we might:
Explore and reshape your internal “self-talk.”
Build deeper self-trust and reconnect with your body.
Identify underlying patterns that may no longer be serving you.
Bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be.
Areas of Specialization
I work primarily with adolescents and adults (ages 12–40). While I specialize in individual therapy, I am open to supporting couples and families when it aligns with the client’s goals. My areas of focus include:
Anxiety, Depression, & Life Transitions
Identity Exploration & Cultural Navigation
Relationship Challenges & Perfectionism
Self-Understanding & Personal Growth
Personal Identity & Lived Experience
My own lived experience informs my commitment to providing culturally responsive and inclusive care. I understand firsthand how cultural backgrounds and family expectations can impact one’s mental health journey. I strive to ensure every client; regardless of their background, feels respected and understood in our shared space.
Beyond the Office
When I’m not in the therapy room, you can usually find me exploring new coffee shops or hunting for the best sushi in town. I love staying active with workout classes, traveling to new places, and spending quality time with my friends and family.