
Cindy Bautista
About
Hello! I’m Cindy Bautista, a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in California. I specialize in conducting comprehensive psychological assessments designed to provide clarity, inform treatment planning, and connect clients with the resources they need to thrive. Whether you're navigating mental health challenges, seeking a diagnosis, or looking for guidance in a time of uncertainty, I’m here to support you.My approach is grounded, collaborative, and deeply client-centered. I believe that each person’s story is unique, and I strive to create a safe, respectful environment where you feel truly seen and understood. Assessments are more than just evaluations, they’re a meaningful step toward healing, self-awareness, and personal growth! Together, we’ll work to uncover insights that can bring direction and a renewed sense of confidence as you move forward.
My decision to specialize in working with autistic and neurodiverse individuals stems from a deep respect for the different ways people experience and interact with the world. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting neurodivergent clients across a variety of settings. These experiences have profoundly shaped my understanding and appreciation of neurodiversity.What continually draws me to this work is the opportunity to provide care that affirms rather than pathologizes. I’m passionate about creating a space where clients feel truly seen, understood, and valued for who they are, not for how well they conform to conventional expectations. My approach is grounded in neurodiversity-affirming principles, with the goal of fostering a therapeutic environment that celebrates each person’s unique strengths, challenges, and ways of being.
In my work, I bring an affirming and strengths-based lens by focusing on each individual’s unique abilities, values, and lived experiences, rather than viewing differences through a deficit-based model. I believe that every person has inherent strengths, even when facing significant challenges, and my role is to help identify and build on those strengths in meaningful ways.For neurodivergent and marginalized clients especially, I strive to create a validating space where they feel safe, respected, and free to be their authentic selves. This means actively listening to their narratives, honoring their perspectives, and collaborating on goals that feel relevant and empowering to them, not imposed by outside standards.In assessments, I aim to move beyond labels and diagnoses to offer insights that are practical, affirming, and useful. I highlight areas of resilience, creativity, and capability, while also acknowledging any areas where support may be needed. By centering the person, not just the symptoms, I work to support growth, self-understanding, and access to care in a way that fosters confidence and autonomy.
