- CBT techniques
- Mindfulness practices
- Motivational interviewing
About Darlene
Darlene Shipp-Estes is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California with 10 years of experience. She works with people dealing with stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, anger, and depression. She also focuses on issues such as communication problems, control issues, guilt and shame, and panic attacks.
Darlene uses a conversational, person-focused style in sessions. She listens to what matters to each client and adapts the discussions to practical steps. That can mean learning how thoughts affect moods, practicing calmer responses, or building short routines to reduce daily stress.
Her clinical toolbox includes client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and elements of the Gottman Method. She draws on these approaches to offer concrete skills - for example, thought records, grounding practices, and structured goal-setting. Sessions often focus on what someone can do between meetings as well as during them.
Darlene describes the work as collaborative. She helps people set small, realistic goals and tracks progress over time. Conversations cover triggers, typical responses, and alternative behaviors that lessen conflict and regret.
She aims to make therapy straightforward and practical. People who want clearer communication, fewer outbursts, or better control over impulses will find a direct, step-oriented approach in sessions.
How her approaches translate to online sessions
Client-centered therapy focuses on listening and on the client setting the pace. In practice this means sessions begin by identifying what matters most and then shaping conversations around those goals. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) teaches practical skills to change unhelpful thinking and behavior. That often involves short exercises, thought records, and clear action steps to use between sessions. Mindfulness therapy emphasizes simple attention and grounding practices to reduce reactivity and racing thoughts.Finding the right mix of approaches is part of the work. The therapist will discuss options with the client and decide together which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences. This is a collaborative process and can shift as progress is made.
Session formats are not specified in the biography, so confirm current options before booking. Online sessions can make it easier to fit meetings into a busy week, allow for shorter check-ins when needed, or let someone choose whether to be on camera. These practical benefits help people maintain consistency and apply new skills in day-to-day life.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
10+ years
Listed in
California
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does she address related to anger?
She works with anger along with stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma and depression. Other focuses include control issues, impulsivity, and communication problems.
How would you describe her therapy style?
She uses a conversational, client-centered approach and adapts sessions to practical skills. Sessions often include exercises to practice between meetings.
How much clinical experience does she have?
She has 10 years of professional work experience as a therapist in California.
What credential does she hold and where is she based?
She is an LMFT, licensed in California, and her practice is located in California.
Which languages are supported in sessions?
Sessions are offered in English only.
Can people outside the United States work with her?
She is not accepting international clients at this time.
How are fees and payments handled?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
What steps do I take to begin?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule your first session.