Azucena (a-zoo-se-nah) Acosta
Hi there, I'm Azucena. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I work with clients with a history of trauma, domestic violence, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (ie. postpartum depression), OCD, and/or life transitions. I help individuals manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and self-care to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
I work with clients to identify, process, and learn to better cope with their specific mental health distress. Alleviating superficial symptoms and addressing the root cause. Together we develop realistic and appropriate treatment goals and build the capacity for healing, growth and change. Therapy isn't easy or fast but I hope to utilize our time together to efficiently address your needs and create a catalyst for change. I use evidenced based treatment modalities and user-friendly tools. Your input, feedback and participation is always encouraged and requested because you know yourself best. I assign homework (i.e. journaling, reading, videos etc.) because I believe change happens by practice in our everyday life.
The treatment methods and tools I utilize
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness techniques and a trauma informed approach. I create a structure for treatment, provide psychoeducation and teach coping skills and techniques as appropriate. I use cognitive behavioral methods to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I challenge irrational thoughts and/or beliefs. I bring my knowledge and experience to each session and meet you where you are.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My strengths as a therapist are being trauma informed, flexible and adapting therapy to each individual. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe environment where you feel comfortable and we can be honest and authentic towards one another. I like to be direct and address problems but I do not know what you do not tell me. If something is not working, I want my clients to let me know. I want my clients to be comfortable enough to challenge the therapist. If I'm not able to support you with your needs then we can find another resource together because your best interest is my priority.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
anxiety, depression, domestic violence/relationship issues, life challenges, prenatal, students