Duarte Aguiar is licensed in the state of Maryland as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). He is a graduate of Loyola University with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and has over 8 years’ experience providing therapy in Maryland to a diverse client-base in a variety of clinical settings including school-based (adolescent and adult), substance abuse/recovery clinic, marriage and family, individual, groups, and psychoeducation. Duarte specializes in the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Approach, and Pastoral Counseling to treat various diagnoses. Duarte’s philosophy of care as a spiritually oriented therapist consists of a holistic perspective of the person(s) present in therapy. Inspired and informed by the person-centered approach, Duarte believes in the value of being present in a non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship while helping to challenge the client(s) to live up to THEIR own expectations. Duarte comes from the Catholic tradition and is ready, willing, and able to incorporate spirituality in sessions insofar as the client is desiring to do so. With that said, Duarte believes in bringing the client’s own beliefs, aspirations, and values to the forefront and using those unique aspects of the client’s virtues to guide the development of a trusting and open therapeutic atmosphere. Duarte is committed to providing a safe space where the client can feel heard, accepted, encouraged and even challenged.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In the first session, typically I discuss confidentiality, and some of the limitations of therapy but I emphasize feeling comfortable with me as a therapist. It is important that you feel comfortable talking to your therapist and if there is something about me that is off-putting, it is ok to let me know that you would prefer to speak to someone else. I will do all that I can to help you find someone with whom you may feel more comfortable. In the first session, I am also looking for an appropriate diagnosis so I will be asking questions about what you feel are some of the issues. I will never ask you to reveal something you are not comfortable talking about, but I do need to know some of the issues to help with finding an appropriate diagnosis and creating an effective treatment plan. Lastly, we will be creating a treatment plan together which essentially is a road map to help guide the purpose of each session.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I go above and beyond for my clients and work well with people of various backgrounds and age groups. Some of my strengths include knowledge of various cultures and traditions. While I'm able to work with people suffering with various diagnoses, I'm most specialized in working with those suffering from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and substance issues. My background is Catholic and I have extensive education in theology and philosophy. I enjoy incorporating spirituality into sessions as it can create a common ground for healing and effective interaction to take place.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to see life from a different perspective and be open to truly sharing the issues they are experiencing the therapeutic relationship. I believe that therapist and client walk together and that implies being able to open, honest, and challenging at times. The clients that would fit best would be willing to use CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) as a guiding principle to sessions and are willing to dive into the deep when they feel it would be comfortable to do so.
About Duarte Aguiar
Licensed in
Accepts
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Maryland with over eight years of experience providing therapy to a diverse client base in various clinical settings. I earned my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Loyola University and have worked in school-based programs, substance abuse recovery clinics, marriage and family therapy, individual and group counseling, and psychoeducation. I am also certified by National Board of Certified Counselors, maintaining active requirements for certification. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and anger management, utilizing evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and the Person-Centered Approach. Additionally, I incorporate elements of Pastoral Counseling for clients who wish to explore spirituality in their therapeutic journey. As a spiritually oriented therapist, I take a holistic approach, recognizing the importance of each client’s unique beliefs, aspirations, and values. Drawing from the person-centered philosophy, I strive to create a non-judgmental, supportive environment while encouraging clients to live up to their own expectations. While I come from the Catholic tradition, I respect and integrate each client’s personal worldview to foster a trusting and open therapeutic atmosphere. My goal is to provide a safe space where clients feel heard, accepted, and empowered. I am committed to helping individuals navigate their challenges while fostering growth, resilience, and overall well-being.
Grief Therapy
I bring valuable experience in grief counseling, where I’ve had the privilege of helping individuals navigate the complexities of loss. My empathic nature allows me to connect deeply with clients, offering them a safe space to express their feelings. By using a person-centered approach combined with supportive therapy, I aim to empower individuals to heal at their own pace, fostering resilience and emotional growth. My approach is rooted in understanding, respect, and compassion, providing the guidance needed to move through grief while honoring each person's unique journey.
Faith based therapy
As a Pastoral Counselor with a degree in Pastoral Counseling, I am trained in using Spiritually-Oriented therapy as a treatment method to support individuals in their healing process. As a Catholic Christian, I am open to incorporating faith into our sessions when it aligns with the client's needs and desires. I believe in honoring and respecting each person's personal beliefs and values, and I will always base our work on what the client brings into the session. My approach is to create a safe, respectful environment where we can explore and build upon the foundation of your own faith and spirituality, ensuring that our work together is authentic and aligned with your beliefs.