Im a Bilingual English/Spanish-speaking therapist with a Marriage and Family License, with 18 years of clinical experience, 12 years licensed and in private practice. I consider myself to be bi-cultural. Having been raised as a first-generation American in a Latin family, I can identify with the mentality of someone living within two "worlds". Transitioning from one culture to another with seemingly different values, beliefs and language. I can easily understand the struggle that maintaining, and existing in both, can sometimes be. I've come to perceive and appreciate it as the gift of having a "bridge" that allows connection to, and understanding of, different aspects of people and life. My education has a foundation in Clinical Psychology, woven with holistic transpersonal themes, the connection between mind, body, and spirit, and just plain down-to-earth common sense. Always keeping in mind the client's personal beliefs and values.
We will do a rundown of "broad" information- physical ailments, substance abuse, medications used, even if listed on the intake it may need elaboration. I will then identify the reason for seeking assistance at this point in time, if you've had previous therapy experience and what was the culmination of that. We will take from there as to what needs, or is desired, to be the focus of the initial, or future, sessions. There are no wrong answers, including not wanting to discuss something. Every session is tailored to the client.
I consider therapy an art, as every individual, and even every session for the same individual can be different. I attempt to focus therapy on awareness of self, assisting you to know yourself, your wants, needs and desires, how you envision yourself in the future, and how I can help you to reach this vision. I offer nonjudgmental feedback based on my analysis, educated deductions, and intuitive feelings felt within the interaction, ALL to offer information that may help you gain insight into your process, mental paradigm and genuine identity. I tailor it to the individual and the current circumstances. Your therapy, life, and overall growth are in your control. I am here as a guide, facilitator, source of support, and at times, devil's advocate.
I believe all humans have the capability of progressing, reaching their goals and potential, whatever that might mean to them.
Identifying patterns of beliefs, and subsequent actions/behavior that follow those beliefs, is imperative to recognizing and modifying dysfunctional habits that impede progress.