Meet Mary Mathew

My journey to becoming a psychotherapist started when I took my first psychology class in high school. I was fascinated by the topics and the connections I could make to my own family of origin. Understanding the human experience, our motivations, and the coping skills we develop is extremely fascinating to me.

I have over ten years of experience treating various issues affecting children, individuals, couples, and families. I received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, specializing in marriage and family therapy. 

My Cancer Journey

Like many of my clients, I too have gone through a lot that has tested my resilience and strength. At the age of 30, I was diagnosed with cancer. During my journey as a patient, I experienced firsthand the psychological impact that a cancer diagnosis can have on a person and their family. Being a psychotherapist at the time, I was not exempt of the psychological struggles that newly diagnosed individuals feel.

However, during my cancer journey, I immediately learned about the need for increased psychological care for individuals and families going through the treatment process and beyond the diagnosis. There were always free resources available, which was amazing, but at the time I wanted a more personalized private practice experience, which was difficult to find. During the course of cancer treatment, so much attention is paid to the motions of completing the course of treatment - but little time is dedicated to improving the mental health concerns of people going through the experience of cancer. 

My Calling For Helping Others

After several years of being in remission, I felt a strong calling to do something more. I knew that it was time to open my first private practice, Beyond Cancer LA. Throughout my time as a psychotherapist, I have treated hundreds of people within the cancer community. In addition to working with the cancer community, I have extensive experience working with a variety of populations including children’s mental health, postpartum depression, couples and families, life transitions, anxiety, and depression.

My diverse background and ability to connect with people on varying topics have allowed me to expand my practice to include those affected by cancer as well as those in the general population.

My Philosophy As a Psychotherapist

I believe that people want to be seen and heard and we all desire connection with other humans. As a therapist, I bring my whole self into the therapy room and aim to replace my clients’ fears and hesitations with warmth, personality, and humor.

We all possess a certain level of strength and resilience that can be used to facilitate the healing process. My job isn’t to “eliminate” the parts of yourself that you don’t like; rather, my purpose is to help you dig down and magnify your strengths and increase the awareness of the power YOU hold. Ultimately, my goal is to help you live consciously and make meaningful decisions that benefit you.

Advocacy Is Our Strongest Tool

As an Egyptian-American, I am a strong and active participant in increasing awareness of mental health issues in multicultural communities. I have also spent a great deal of time advocating for the cancer community. In addition to my work as a therapist, I have gone to doctor appointments and chemo centers with fellow cancer survivors as a support person. 

Outside of work, I love traveling and the opportunity it provides for embracing diverse cultural experiences and meeting new people. As a mother of two, I enjoy introducing my children to various cultural and ethnic backgrounds to show them the uniqueness and similarities that make us individuals and people. 

Let Me Walk With You On Your Journey Of healing

Life can be heartbreaking, tragic, beautiful, and so much more. My greatest joy is being able to learn about others and help them through life’s most challenging obstacles. Whatever you are going through, I am here to support you on your life’s journey and help you heal and expand on the person you are meant to be.