Our Team
Jessica Holzer, M.A., LMFT, RPT-S
(She/Her)
Owner and Founder of Connected Care Family Counseling
CA Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #91154
AZ Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #16401
Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor
AAMFT Approved Supervisor
About Me
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I received my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Cognitive Science from the University of California, San Diego, before going on to complete my Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Alliant International University. While at Alliant, I had the unique privilege of studying abroad in India, Cambodia, and Mexico, where I explored diverse international approaches to mental health — an experience that continues to shape the way I show up for my clients today.
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Following graduate school, I completed my clinical training at several nonprofit agencies throughout San Diego County, with a focus on children and families. This experience gave me a deep familiarity with local resources and supports, and a profound appreciation for the strength and resilience of the communities I serve.
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Throughout my career, I have been committed to growth as a clinician and a lifelong learner. I have pursued extensive training and certifications, including obtaining my Registered Play Therapist (RPT) certification, deepening my education in attachment-based therapies and parent education, and participating in trauma research. I became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in 2015 and earned my clinical supervisor credentials in 2017. Today, I continue expanding my skills by attending and providing trainings, and serving as an adjunct professor at a local university.
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In 2025, I co-founded Nurturing Playful Minds alongside a colleague — an organization dedicated to child mental health education for parents and clinicians. Our current focus is neuroplastic chronic pain in children, and we are proud to have published a clinical workbook addressing this often-overlooked area of pediatric mental health.
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Beyond the Office
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When I'm not working with clients, you'll likely find me outdoors with my friends and family. Hiking and camping are my way of deeply unwinding and reconnecting with what matters most. I also love visiting local libraries, reading, crafting, crocheting, and discovering fun new places to explore around San Diego with my daughter and partner.
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These personal experiences — of connection, curiosity, and finding joy in the everyday — deeply inform the work I do with my clients. At Connected Care Family Counseling, my greatest hope is that every child, parent, and family who walks through my door feels welcomed exactly as they are, leaves feeling a little more whole, and carries with them the belief that growth is always possible. It is both an honor and a privilege to do this work, and I look forward to the opportunity to support you.
I am a proud first-generation Latina, born and raised in the Central Valley. I graduated from California State University, Fullerton, with a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Law. During my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to work with various non-profit organizations that focused on family reunification and working with at-risk youth.
My experience set the foundation for pursuing higher education. I completed my Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, compassion and connection. I have experience working with individuals from a range of cultural backgrounds and ages who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, life changes, behavioral issues and trauma. I use a client-centered approach as a foundation and combine therapeutic techniques from Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Play therapy, Attachment-based, Strength-based, and Narrative therapy. Through our work together, I hope to promote and strengthen resilience in order to overcome life's challenges.
When I’m not in the office, you can find me exploring San Diego’s treasures, reading, hiking and spending time with my two fur babies and watching basketball (go Warriors!).
Gaby Jacinto, AMFT
(She/Her)
Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
AMFT # 148972
Supervised by Jessica Holzer, LMFT
Giselle Arenas, AMFT
(She/Her)
Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
AMFT # 150927
Supervised by Jessica Holzer, LMFT
Healing, I believe, happens through connection — with ourselves, the people we love, and
sometimes with a stranger who meets us without judgement. That belief is at the heart of
everything I do as a therapist.
Growing up as a second-generation Filipino-American, I learned early on how deeply culture,
family, and identity can shape the way we see ourselves and move through the world. Those
experiences shape how I show up for my clients, with curiosity, empathy, and respect for each
person’s story.
Before becoming a therapist, I received my bachelor's degree in Nutritional Sciences from the
University of Arizona, which grounded me in a holistic approach to wellness. From there, I
worked in case management for a non-profit serving high-risk and unhoused individuals. That
experience gifted me with a greater understanding of resilience, systemic barriers, and what it
really means to meet someone where they are at. This led me to pursue my Master’s in
Marriage and Family Therapy at San Diego State University.
Today, I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families. Whether you and your
family are navigating emotional challenges, behavioral concerns, family conflict, or life
transitions, my goal is simple: to create a safe and supportive space where each person in the
room feels heard, understood, and valued.
My approach is relational and integrative, drawing upon Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution
Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and often incorporating play and art-based
interventions. Together, we can explore patterns, build practical tools, nurture self-compassion,
and work towards the relationships and sense of self you’re hoping for.