New to Grow
Hello, I’m Yolanda, a licensed psychotherapist with a Master of Social Work degree from Loyola University of Chicago. I consider it a true privilege to walk alongside individuals as they courageously pursue healing, growth, and transformation. In our work together, I offer a compassionate and inclusive space where you can feel safe to explore life’s challenges, including: Navigating independence and life transitions Working through identity, relationship, or family struggles Managing parenting stress and blended family dynamics Coping with higher education demands and career pressures Building emotional resilience and healthier coping strategies As a married mother of three in a blended family, I understand firsthand that every season of life—even the most difficult—can hold potential for renewal, peace, and deeper purpose. My goal is to support you in: Unpacking what feels heavy or overwhelming Strengthening emotional and relational well-being Moving toward meaningful, life-giving change Together, we will create space for honesty, healing, and the freedom to live with greater purpose and hope.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In our first session together, you can expect a supportive and welcoming space where we begin exploring your story and what has brought you to therapy. During this initial meeting, we may discuss: Your vocation, education, or current season of life Family relationships and support systems Childhood experiences and upbringing Significant life events or trauma that may still be impacting you Social history and overall life context Physical and mental health background Most importantly, we will focus on: What led you to seek therapy now What you are hoping to work through and achieve The first session is not about having everything figured out—it is about building a foundation of understanding.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
What sets my approach apart is the combination of clinical expertise, real-life understanding, and a deeply personal, compassionate style of therapy. In my work, I bring: Strong clinical training and evidence-based care Experience as a group therapist in an IOP/PHP setting Led coping skills groups grounded in CBT, DBT, and ACT Helped clients build practical tools for emotional regulation, anxiety, mood concerns, and life transitions Experience across different age groups and life stages Worked with teens, young adults, and adults Adapt therapy to meet each person in their unique season of life A blend of professional expertise and lived experience As a wife and mother, I understand that life’s challenges are deeply personal Offer care that is both knowledgeable and genuinely empathetic Faith-integrated counseling when desired Provide Christian counseling rooted in Biblical values for clients seeking that support For others, therapy remains values-centered, focusing on identity, purpose, and meaningful growth A safe, human, and judgment-free therapeutic space A place where you can cry, laugh, and share openly Therapy grounded in humility, empathy, and hope Above all, I believe transformation is possible, and I strive to walk alongside you with compassion as you move toward healing and renewal.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I am best positioned to support individuals who are ready to face life’s challenges and desire meaningful change, even if they aren’t sure where to begin. I often work with clients who: Feel motivated to grow but struggle with anxiety, low mood, overwhelm, or self-doubt Want encouragement, accountability, and a steady space to stay connected to their goals Are navigating seasons of transition and seeking emotional clarity Many of my clients are experiencing: Life changes and adjustment stress Career pressure or burnout Relationship challenges and family dynamics The emotional weight of responsibility and caretaking roles Above all, I strive to help clients move toward: Greater emotional steadiness Restored confidence and resilience A more grounded, purposeful way forward If you are longing for growth, healing, and meaningful transformation, I would be honored to support you.
Christian Counseling
My approach to Christian counseling is rooted in biblical truth, guided by the Holy Spirit, and informed by sound psychological principles that support lasting emotional and spiritual healing. I believe true healing happens when we address both the heart and the mind. Scripture tells us that transformation begins with the renewing of our minds, and counseling provides a safe, supportive and compassionate space to explore the thoughts, beliefs, wounds, and patterns that may be keeping you stuck. Together, we gently uncover root issues, such as past trauma, unmet emotional needs, distorted beliefs, or unresolved pain, while inviting God’s truth to bring clarity, freedom, and restoration.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help the clients identify their thoughts and emotions, building awareness of patterns that previously led to automatic reactions. By slowing the process down, I guide them in learning how to pause, recognize the connection between their thoughts and feelings, and choose intentional responses rather than reacting. I help clients develop healthier ways to express emotions, leading to improved emotional regulation, clarity, and confidence in communicating their needs.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) by teaching each core module, including distress tolerance, emotional regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. I integrate these skills throughout our work together, with particular focus on relationships and communication. This approach also teaches balance, helping clients discern what they can change versus what they need to accept. I guide clients in giving themselves space for their emotional experiences while learning how to engage in rational, logical, and intentional responses. Through DBT, clients develop practical tools to manage emotions, communicate needs clearly, set healthy boundaries, and navigate relationships with greater clarity, stability, and confidence.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients develop psychological flexibility by learning how to acknowledge thoughts and emotions without being controlled by them. This approach emphasizes acceptance of internal experiences while committing to values-based actions that align with what matters most. Through ACT, I support clients in making space for difficult emotions, reducing avoidance, and choosing purposeful responses rooted in clarity, faith, and personal values, even in the presence of discomfort.