About:

Shanel Benhamo, MA, AMFT, is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships. She works with adults, teens, couples, and families, providing a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.

Shanel specializes in treating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, self-esteem, life transitions, and grief. She also has experience facilitating women’s group therapy, where she has supported and empowered women through meaningful topics and practical tools for growth and healing.

Her therapeutic approach is warm, welcoming, and collaborative. Shanel integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and mindfulness to help clients develop insight, strengthen coping skills, and create lasting change.

Education and Therapeutic Style:

Shanel earned her Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University. Her work is grounded in a client-centered and culturally sensitive approach, allowing her to tailor therapy to each individual’s unique needs and experiences.

Cultural Sensitivity and Language:

Born and raised in the United States with Jewish roots, Shanel brings cultural awareness and sensitivity into her work. She offers therapy in both English and Hebrew, creating an inclusive and comfortable environment for clients from diverse backgrounds.

Outside of Therapy:

Outside of her clinical work, Shanel enjoys cooking, staying active at the gym, and spending quality time with loved ones. She values balance and self-care and encourages her clients to cultivate these practices in their own lives.

Additional languages: 

Hebrew

Shanel Benhamo, AMFT in CA #161850 is employed as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Leavitt Marriage and Family Therapy

Supervisor: Nadezda Leavitt, LMFT in CA #141910