Stormy Tovar
I’m a warm, down-to-earth therapist who genuinely enjoys getting to know the person behind the symptoms. I work with teens and adults who may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, disconnected, or simply not quite like themselves. Sometimes you know exactly what you need help with; other times, you just know something feels off. I’ll meet you wherever you are, without judgment, and we’ll make sense of it together. My style is collaborative, trauma-informed, practical, and compassionate. I want therapy to feel like a place where you can be honest, take a breath, and know that someone is genuinely invested in helping you feel better—not just checking boxes.
First session
Your first session is a chance to slow down and take a breath. You’ll have space to tell me what’s been going on, whether you know exactly where to begin or aren’t quite sure how to put it into words. Together, we’ll start making sense of what you’re experiencing, identify what feels most important, and begin creating a plan for where we can go from there. You don’t have to figure it all out before you walk through the door.
Strengths
I bring warmth, curiosity, patience, and genuine investment in the people I work with. I’m not someone who believes therapy should feel like being talked at or given a list of things you “should” be doing. I listen closely, ask thoughtful questions, and help you slow down when everything feels like too much. I’m also comfortable gently challenging you when it may help you see something differently. My years of working with people through difficult circumstances have taught me that there is rarely a simple explanation for why someone is struggling. I try to hold space for the whole picture while helping you identify what is within your control and what might need to change. I want clients to leave sessions feeling heard, understood, and with something they can actually take with them into real life. Most importantly, I want you to feel like we’re figuring it out together.
Ideal clients
My ideal client is an adult who is ready to better understand themselves and what they’re experiencing. You may know exactly what you’re struggling with—anxiety, stress, grief, relationship concerns, or a major life transition—or you may simply know that something feels off and you don’t feel quite like yourself. You may be carrying a lot, feeling overwhelmed, or trying to keep up with the demands of life while putting your own needs aside. Wherever you’re starting, you don’t need to have the right words or a clear plan. You’re willing to be curious about what’s happening, explore what you need, and work together toward feeling more grounded, clear, and connected.
Treatment methods
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I believe you are the expert on your own life. I won’t come in with a one-size-fits-all plan or tell you what you “should” do. Instead, we’ll work together to understand what you’re experiencing, what matters to you, and what you need. I’ll listen without judgment, offer support and perspective, and help you find a path forward that feels right for you.
Compassion Focused
Compassion-focused therapy helps us explore how you relate to yourself, especially when you’re stressed, struggling, or feeling like you’re not doing enough. We’ll work on recognizing self-criticism and developing a kinder, more supportive way of responding to yourself. The goal isn’t to let yourself off the hook—it’s to build a healthier inner voice that supports growth and resilience.
Psychodynamic
Psychodynamic therapy helps us look beneath the surface to better understand patterns in your thoughts, feelings, relationships, and behaviors. We may explore how past experiences have shaped the way you see yourself and respond to others today. Together, we’ll build insight into what’s happening beneath the surface so you can make more intentional choices in the present.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT focuses on the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together, we’ll identify patterns that may be contributing to stress, anxiety, or feeling stuck and explore more helpful ways of thinking and responding. I’ll also offer practical tools and strategies you can use in everyday life to feel more capable and in control.
Location
Virtual sessions