New to Grow
I am a trauma-informed Independent Couple and Family Therapist who holds space for the many intersecting factors that shape a person or relationship. I received my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Appalachian State University, along with a certificate in Multicultural Counseling. As a queer, neurodiverse Latina and second-generation Martinican American, I understand the importance of culturally responsive and affirming care. My approach is person-centered and grounded in collaboration, consent, transparency, and honesty. These are essential in building trust and creating a therapeutic relationship where clients feel supported from the very beginning. As a neurodiverse therapist, I work with your brain rather than against it. Together, we explore multiple possibilities and pathways through difficult experiences in ways that are accessible, inclusive, and free from shame or internalized ableism. I am trained in EMDR and FLASH therapy and incorporate evidence-based practices such as experiential family therapy. I also integrate painting, drawing, and play to support self-expression for clients of all ages and comfort levels with verbal communication. I believe therapy is a place where you get to discover who you are not who you’ve been expected to be. We are shaped by our relationships, experiences, and environments, and there is no single roadmap for how to exist in the world. My role is to help you create your own. Clients who benefit most from my approach are open to reflection, willing to try new things, and ready to gently stretch into the discomfort that often comes with growth. It is an honor to walk alongside you as you build a life that feels authentic, grounded, and truly yours.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
During the first session with me, clients should expect to establish rapport, set expectations, and provide some background information on why they are seeking therapy. I will begin with a warm, welcoming introduction to ensure that clients are comfortable. I will explain my client-centered, collaborative and experiential approach to our sessions. We will discuss confidentiality and boundaries as well as goal setting. Aside from discussing background information, we will also clarify the client's expectations and most importantly, allow space for a client to ask any and all questions that may come up.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
When it comes to my approach, I feel that being collaborative and attuned to my clients is most important in creating an effective environment for change. My intention is to create a calm, affirming and playful environment in order to be able to address and explore difficult topics and create effective and sustainable support and change for my clients whether they be individuals or couples. Clients have provided me feedback expressing that my approach helps them feel heard, empowered, and more connected to themselves and each other.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I love working with people who are ready to come with an open mind, and do the work of being honest, transparent, and have a willingness to learn and to trust, all of which are key ingredients to a healthy therapeutic relationship. I also love working with neurodiverse humans and humans identifying within the LGBTQIA+ community within a relational or individual context.