Hi, I’m Monica manibusan.

I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience working with children, adults, and families through their journeys of growth and healing.

I have a special passion for supporting neurodivergent individuals and families and the unique challenges they face. I’ve worked extensively with children and families using a team-based approach to create change in the environments that matter most.

I'm also the Clinical Director of North Star Families, where I take an active role in the training and supervision of our entire team. Supporting and mentoring other therapists is one of the most rewarding parts of my work, and it allows me to help create a community of care that extends beyond my individual practice. 

My Approach

Regulation, Community, Enjoyment

Traditional Talk Therapy works wonderfully for some and not so great for many. My approach is rooted in empathy, playfulness, and deep respect. I draw from a range of evidence-based practices—including Attachment-Focused EMDR, play therapy, and Reflective Parenting—to meet each client where they are, helping them feel seen, supported, and empowered. I use an integrated, bottom-up approach that supports healing in mind, body, and soul. It all begins with regulation. By focusing on the body's physical sensations and nervous system responses before engaging in cognitive work, we lay the groundwork for safety and connection. This foundation enables deep, lasting healing from the inside out.

Trainings

Over the years, I’ve completed extensive training in areas that inform my integrative approach, including:

  • Advanced Certificate in DIR/Floortime (ICDL)

  • Attachment-Focused EMDR (Parnell Institute)

  • Perinatal Mental Health (Postpartum Support International)

  • Play Therapy (UC San Diego)

  • Animal-Assisted Therapy (Peacock Foundation)

  • ITCT-A: Integrative Treatment of Complex Trauma – Adolescents (USC)

  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

  • Reflective Parenting Program (Center for Reflective Communities)

  • Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP)

  • Early Start Denver Model (UC Davis)

Ollie

Meet Ollie – My Furry Co-Therapist

Ollie is a gentle and friendly miniature dachshund who loves to help kids feel safe, calm, and happy. Ollie has a special job—he listens with floppy ears, offers cuddles when you need them, and is always ready to play or sit by your side. With his big brown eyes and wagging tail, Ollie helps make therapy a warm and welcoming place for everyone.