Hello, I’m Maria Fernanda Perez, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked in a helping capacity for over 19 years. I specialize in working with violence and trauma survivors, teens, adults who have experienced challenges in their lives. I support couples and families who desire to develop a deeper connection to their body. For many of my clients this looks like symptoms of high sensitivity, anxiety, depression, and trauma interfering with their ability to connect with themselves. My traditional mental health background has given me a solid foundation in helping others to better finding their inner self.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
I can definitely say we build rapport and gain an understanding of the symptoms. I do focus on building rapport with a client because it is essential for establishing trust, creating a safe therapeutic environment, and fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. I tend to focus on; Demonstrate empathy by acknowledging and validating client's feelings and experiences. Show that you understand their perspective and that you care about their well-being. I show genuine interest in my client as a person. Ask open-ended questions to learn more about their life, interests, and values. Find common ground and shared experiences to connect with them on a personal level. I respect my client's autonomy, choices, and boundaries. I like to create a nonjudgmental and accepting atmosphere where they feel free to express themselves without fear of criticism or rejection. Involve my client in the therapeutic process by collaboratively setting goals, discussing treatment options, and soliciting their feedback and input. Empower them to take an active role in their own healing journey.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
Behavioral Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Family/Marital Therapy Art Therapy Attachment-Based Chairwork Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) Clinical Supervision and Licensed Supervisors Coaching Court Evaluations Culturally Sensitive Emotionally Focused Existential Family Systems
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I have been working in the area of childhood trauma. I have a real sense of connection with childhood work, as I myself, have gone through my own journey. I have helped individuals work through their own trauma and develop the skills to re-parent themselves.