Mariel Alano, M.A., M.S.

Mariel Alano

Position Title
Doctoral Intern

  • Counseling Services
she/her/hers
Bio

Professional Interests

Asian American mental health, Filipinx mental health, LGBTQIA+, BIPOC mental health, anxiety and depression, life transitions, interpersonal issues, international, immigrant, and first generation students, acculturation and adjustment stressors

About Me

I was born and raised in Manila, Philippines and moved to the Bay Area in my early teens. I’m a UC Davis alumni and received my BA degree in Psychology here and received my MA from Teachers College Columbia University. I’m currently working towards my Phd in Clinical Psychology at Palo Alto University. I previously worked at a community college for 3 years providing short-term therapy to a diverse population of college students and also worked in community mental health, hospital/medical, and VA settings as well. I enjoy traveling, reading, watching broadway shows, practicing hot yoga, trying out boba spots, and spending time with my family, friends, and my senior dog Miku.

Languages

Proficient in English, Tagalog

How I Work With Students

I am dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive environment that is safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative in which students can explore their own experiences and challenges openly. My approach integrates solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to provide tools and techniques that are tailored to each of the student’s needs. My approach is informed by cultural humility and understanding of intersectionality, ensuring that I recognize and respect each student’s complex and intersecting identities, experiences, and backgrounds. I aim to empower and support students to build on their strengths, develop effective coping strategies, and help them navigate their personal and academic goals.

Identities that Represent Me

  • Asian Pacific Islander
  • Filipinx