I have 10 years of experience & use evidence-based treatments to support clients through moments of transition/adjustment, depression, trauma, & anxiety. I have specialized training & experience in supporting the needs of the LGBTQIA+ population & those with a history of trauma & abuse. I am passionate about helping others & believe that therapy has the potential to allow us to build awareness from the inside out & understand how we feel while challenging ourselves to reach goals.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
The first session I like to keep low key. Expect for a safe space to be provided for you to share and disclose as much or as little as you feel comfortable with sharing. I like to use the first session to really get to know my clients and allow them the space to share about themselves, family and background/history. If any traumas have taken place, it would be good to introduce this in the first session. I also like to go over your history with mental health treatment and like to go over past diagnosis, medication use, and treatment involvement. This is also a time for you to get to know me and ask any questions you would like.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Every therapist has their own strengths. For me, my strengths include providing a safe space, challenging you to dig deep, & find strength from within while assigning “homework”. Homework will be used to support your progress in between sessions. I also don't shy away from talks about spirituality & I try my best to demonstrate a profound belief in your ability to thrive. I am optimistic and hopeful and try to be that for you when you struggle to do so.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
If you are hoping to walk away from a session feeling heard, supported, validated, & gently pushed to see & try out new possibilities to move you towards your goals, I am ready to provide that for you. Together we will highlight your progress & problem-solve areas where improvement is needed & where growth has occurred.
About Veronica Cruz-Martinez
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have used CBT throughout my career as a therapist. I like to utilize CBT techniques to assist client's in identifying the problem at hand and connect with the thoughts that you are having around this. In doing so, client's will be able to start challenging any negative thoughts that might be occurring. Another way to think about this is reshaping the thoughts to better serve you and to come from a more positive perspective. This is all done while learning coping skills and developing self-confidence.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
In using Mindfulness therapy, I have been able to help people be more aware of the present moment they are in and accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Some ways that I like to utilize and teach mindfulness is through grounding techniques and breathing skills.