La Wanda Marrero, LMFT - Therapist at Grow Therapy

La Wanda Marrero

La Wanda Marrero

LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual

Hi there, I'm La! Hello, I am La Wanda Marrero, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist LMFT139411. I have been in practice for over 10 years. My approach is strength-based, to meet you, the client, right where you are. My area of focus is stress reduction and client goal orientation. My approach I have found that video, writing, and journaling are key successes to healing and moving forward. Also, play, art, mindfulness, talk, and client-interest activities offer relaxation and a therapeutic accepting environment. My focus I work with clients who have made a decision to support themselves in making realistic changes and lifestyle improvements that decrease stress, depression, and anxiety with a trauma-informed, and natural heart approach. My communication style I create a safe, trusting, and supportive telehealth experience. I am transparent and encourage honesty and self-acceptance in client decision-making and goals. I challenge a client's goals of therapy to line up with the client's actions. My journey to mental healthcare I created a therapeutic writing class called Start Steppin after publishing my first book Alice N Crackland in 2008. I realized writing was an essential tool in acknowledging, accepting, and permitting myself to overcome the challenges that I faced as a child. I believe wholeheartedly others could also benefit from learning to express themselves through the art of writing, pretense, and therapy.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

My goals for you I allow a client to define their reasoning for therapy and their expectations of therapy based on the goals they have chosen. Sometimes obtaining a goal is a step-by-step process, and I am available and committed with flexibility. My first session with you To build rapport and a trusting atmosphere.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

My great strength as a provider is the ability to cultivate a safe and empathetic space where clients feel heard, understood, and valued. This involves actively listening without judgment, demonstrating genuine compassion, and adapting therapeutic approaches to meet the unique needs and strengths of each client. Building Trust: Establishing rapport and maintaining confidentiality to foster a strong therapeutic alliance. Cultural Sensitivity: Respecting and incorporating clients’ diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and values into treatment plans. Empowering Clients: Encouraging self-discovery and resilience by highlighting strengths and fostering independence. Flexibility and Adaptability: Tailoring interventions to align with the client’s goals, preferences, and progress. Continual Growth: Staying informed about emerging research and techniques to provide the most effective and ethical care.Ultimately, a therapist my strength lies in their dedication to guiding clients toward growth, healing, and a greater sense of well-being.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

It is my understanding that my past addiction and actions impacted many lives and heroism to encourage positivity. The Lord's grace and avocation are my redemption road, a bridge to healing. Having firsthand knowledge of family dynamics and dysfunction motivated my passion to become licensed as a Marriage & Family Therapist.

About La Wanda Marrero

Specializes in

Career CounselingCouples CounselingFamily TherapySelf EsteemSpiritualityTrauma and PTSD

Licensed in

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, evidence-based approach that focuses on identifying and reframing unhelpful thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. A key aspect of CBT is the integration of a client’s strengths and barriers to foster meaningful change. Strengths in CBT: CBT empowers clients by leveraging their unique strengths, such as resilience, problem-solving abilities, and self-awareness. These strengths are harnessed to challenge cognitive distortions and reinforce healthier thought patterns. For example, a client with strong interpersonal skills may use their relationships as a support system to practice new coping strategies. Addressing Barriers in CBT: CBT also systematically identifies barriers, such as low motivation, external stressors, or negative core beliefs. These obstacles are explored collaboratively, with therapists helping clients develop adaptive tools and strategies to overcome them. For instance, clients facing time management issues might work on breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps, while those with low self-esteem may benefit from exercises that reinforce self-worth. By balancing strengths with an honest acknowledgment of barriers, CBT provides a personalized roadmap for change, empowering clients to navigate challenges and build a foundation for lasting well-being.

Faith based therapy

Faith-based therapy combines traditional therapeutic techniques with spiritual principles to support emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. This approach recognizes the importance of faith and spirituality in shaping a person's values, identity, and coping mechanisms. Strengths of Faith-Based Therapy: Holistic Approach: It addresses the mind, body, and spirit, fostering a sense of purpose and connectedness. Hope and Resilience: Spiritual teachings and beliefs often provide a framework for hope, forgiveness, and overcoming adversity. Community Support: Encouraging connection with faith communities can offer additional layers of social and emotional support. Core Components: Exploring how faith and spiritual practices (e.g., prayer, meditation, scripture) can aid in emotional healing. Helping clients align their values and behaviors with their spiritual beliefs. Encouraging forgiveness, gratitude, and purpose as tools for personal growth. Faith-based therapy is inclusive and tailored to the individual's beliefs, ensuring a compassionate, culturally sensitive approach that nurtures both psychological and spiritual health.

La Wanda Marrero, LMFT