I’M SO GLAD YOU’RE HERE.

Hi, it’s me Vae!

Your favorite queer, Samoan therapist.

PRONOUNS: SHE/HER/HERS

Let’s get comfy and real human for a second! My name is Vaelupe Ma’aele - Gonzalez and I commonly go by Vae (pronounced just like “pie” but with a V) and I am licensed mental health therapist LMFT #114776 in CA. I am the proud owner of Pasifika Rooted Therapy (Pasifika” or “Pasefika” is a term that identifies the Pacific diaspora in Aotearoa who hail from Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia). My practice exists with the primary intention of bridging the gap between cultural upringing and one’s emotional well-being. A few fun facts about me: I am the eldest of five, I cut my hair for the first time at age 18 and my coffee order is always iced and a little extra sweet!

I hope that in reading this, you know that this is a space for YOU. Whether it is curiosity, a need for relief or simply to help a loved one; I am grateful you’ve stopped by.

Most of the amazing folx I work with are at a place in their life, where they’re simply tired. Tired of people-pleasing, tired of being the “go-to” person for everyone, and tired of feeling like they’re last on the list of importance. As a by-product of your upbringing and community, it is easy to fall into survival mode emotionally. Therapy, to me, is a journey we embark on together, with each session tailored to meet your needs in that moment. My goal is to help you develop a strong sense of self, built on unconditional love and trust. Rooted in the relational model, my practice values human connection, creating a space where your lived experiences are honored and meaningful change can happen.

So if you’re looking for a sign, let this be it. Have you been feeling overwhelmed, trying to escape expectations and demands of those around you? Or maybe you feel like you’re just not at your best and this has started to impact the way you’re showing up in your relationships. Whatever the reason, I am proud of you and glad you’re here. I hope that you’re eager to explore a space where you are the biggest priority.

This space is intended to put you first and at the center of your life. We will explore what’s holding you back and/or what you need to better align with your highest being. Let’s connect when you’re ready!

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

  • All services are rendered through Simple Practice, a secure and HIPPA complaint system.

  • Payments can be made via Ivy Pay's HIPAA-secure design that is guaranteed with a signed Business Associate Agreement so you're fully compliant.

  • Please list of insurances that I accept. under "FAQs" tab.

WHAT CLIENT’S HAVE TO SAY:

“ Vae is such an amazing woman and therapist. She has helped me through so many life changes, challenges and issues. She listens to me, validates my feelings, helps me understand why I am feeling certain emotions and provide tools and strategies for me to make improvements. She has made me love the concept of therapy and sharing my passion for mental health with so many other people. I am forever grateful for all the support I’ve received from Vae throughout our time together!”

-Anonymous

“Vae has been such an integral part of my development throughout the past three years of my life, which were the hardest three years of my life. I would not be the woman I am today without her contributions in teaching me how to manage and deal with my emotions while also giving me tools for success. I have learned so much about myself and different ways of thinking about my life circumstances because of her counsel…I am grateful for the struggles that have made me who I am today and for Vae who’s helped me to navigate them throughout the way.”

-Anonymous