Congratulations on taking the first step toward healing and growth. It takes courage to seek support, and I’m here to walk alongside you on this journey. As a licensed professional counselor in Texas with a background in healthcare and education, I offer a compassionate, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can feel seen, heard, and understood. I am 100% bilingual, providing therapy in both English and Spanish, and I honor the unique cultural experiences that shape each individual. My approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, and holistic, tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re struggling with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, intergenerational trauma, or navigating the emotional challenges of being a first responder or healthcare provider, I’m here to help you find relief, clarity, and renewed strength. I integrate evidence-based therapies such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, Flash Technique, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). In addition, I incorporate creative and holistic techniques like Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, sound therapy, expressive arts, laughter yoga, and somatic approaches to support the healing of your mind, body, and spirit. My individualized approach ensures that every session is as unique as you are, focusing on your personal goals and needs. Healing is not just about addressing symptoms but about empowering you to reconnect with your inner resilience and create a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling. Together, we will explore your challenges, celebrate your strengths, and chart a path to healing that feels right for you. You don’t have to do this alone—I’m here to help. Let’s take the next step toward the life you deserve. For more information, visit www.clarity-center.com
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Your first therapy session with me is an opportunity to begin building a safe, trusting relationship where you can explore your thoughts and emotions at your own pace. This session is all about creating a foundation for your healing journey. My focus will be on understanding who you are, why you’ve sought therapy, and how I can best support you as we move forward together. We’ll begin with introductions and a discussion of my approach to therapy, so you’ll know what to expect in our work together. I’ll explain the importance of confidentiality and answer any questions you might have about the therapeutic process. Therapy is a space for you, and I want you to feel completely comfortable asking about anything that’s on your mind. We’ll also review any necessary paperwork or agreements to ensure everything is clear before we move deeper into the session. The heart of our first session will be about getting to know you—your story, your concerns, and the experiences that brought you to therapy. I’ll ask questions about your background, relationships, and the challenges you’re currently facing. However, there is no pressure to share more than you’re ready to. This session is meant to meet you where you are, and I respect that building trust takes time. As we continue working together, you’ll naturally feel more comfortable opening up and sharing as you feel safe. One key focus of our initial conversation will be understanding your goals for therapy. What do you hope to achieve? What changes would you like to see in your life? Whether your goals are clear or still forming, we’ll begin to outline them together in a way that feels meaningful to you. It’s okay if you’re not entirely sure about your goals yet—part of therapy is exploring these questions and discovering what matters most to you. As we talk, I’ll also ask about how you’ve been coping with life’s challenges, your emotional and physical well-being, and any symptoms you’ve been experiencing. This helps me get a clearer picture of your current situation and identify areas where we might focus our efforts moving forward. If you’ve had therapy before, I may ask about those experiences—what worked, what didn’t, and what you’d like to approach differently this time. These insights help us create a path that feels uniquely suited to you. Everything you share will be received with empathy, compassion, and without judgment. My goal is to create a space where you feel truly heard and understood. Therapy can f
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
As a therapist, my greatest strengths lie in my ability to create a safe, welcoming, and compassionate space where clients feel genuinely seen, heard, and supported. I approach each client with empathy, warmth, and respect for their unique journey, attuning to their needs and pacing to ensure they feel safe and empowered. I am bilingual and bicultural, which allows me to connect deeply with clients from diverse backgrounds and offer culturally sensitive care in both English and Spanish. My understanding of cultural nuances adds another layer of support for clients who may feel that their experiences are best understood through this lens. I genuinely care about the individuals I work with, and this care shapes every aspect of my practice. I am a naturally outgoing, empathic, and humorous person, which helps clients feel at ease during sessions. Therapy can be a vulnerable process, and I believe that moments of levity, when appropriate, can foster connection and remind clients that they are not alone. My deep commitment to listening attentively and understanding my clients’ stories comes from a sincere desire to help them heal and grow. I view my role not just as a therapist but as a compassionate ally who walks alongside them on their journey, gently but surely. One of my key strengths is my ability to tailor therapy to the individual. I integrate evidence-based approaches with holistic and creative techniques, always learning and improving to provide the best care. This flexible approach allows me to meet clients where they are and provide a therapeutic experience that feels personal and effective. Whether you are looking for structured tools to manage stress or a safe space to process emotions, I adapt to your needs, always respecting your pace and preferences. My bicultural background also gives me a unique perspective on the challenges of navigating multiple cultural identities and expectations. I understand how culture can influence your experiences, relationships, and sense of self, and I strive to provide culturally responsive care that validates and honors your story. For clients who feel caught between cultures or who have struggled to find a therapist who “gets it,” I bring a level of understanding that fosters trust and connection. I have extensive experience working with individuals navigating complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, life transitions, and intergenerational trauma. Additionally, I spec
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
Life can feel complicated, and sometimes it’s too much to handle alone. You might be carrying the weight of past experiences, struggling with overwhelming emotions, or navigating a difficult phase in life. If this resonates, know that there’s hope. I work with individuals like you—people seeking a safe space to process feelings, make sense of challenges, and take meaningful steps toward healing and growth. Much of my work focuses on helping people who have experienced trauma. Trauma can leave you feeling stuck, as though the past is still controlling your present. It can affect your relationships, emotions, and how you see yourself. Whether your trauma stems from childhood experiences, a specific event, or ongoing stress, healing is possible. I use approaches like EMDR and Polyvagal Theory to help you process and release painful memories in a way that feels safe and empowering. Together, we’ll work to rebuild a sense of safety, self-compassion, and connection. For some, anxiety and depression make life feel like an uphill battle. You might be stuck in patterns of worry, sadness, or hopelessness that seem impossible to break. These feelings can be isolating, but they don’t have to define your life. Through therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), I help clients explore the patterns contributing to distress and develop tools to navigate life’s challenges with more confidence and peace. Grief is another area where I provide support. Loss doesn’t come with a map, and it can leave you feeling untethered. Whether mourning a loved one, the end of a relationship, or a significant change in your life, grief can feel overwhelming. As a certified grief counselor, I create a compassionate space where you can process your emotions, honor your loss, and begin to find meaning and hope again. If you’re neurodivergent, you might seek a therapist who understands and celebrates your unique strengths while addressing your challenges. Whether you’re living with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, or both, I provide tailored support to help you navigate a world that isn’t always accommodating. Together, we’ll work on strategies for emotional regulation, executive functioning, and self-acceptance, creating a space where you can thrive. I also specialize in supporting first responders and healthcare providers. These roles often come with immense stress, compassion fatigue, and exposure to difficult experiences. Having work
About Clara Magallanes
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3001 Pablo Kisel Boulevard, Brownsville, TX 78526, Suite H2Appointments
Virtual & in-personMy treatment methods
EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a highly effective, evidence-based therapeutic approach designed to facilitate the reprocessing and integration of traumatic memories. This method utilizes bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, to unlock and process distressing memories that are stored dysfunctionally in the brain. By doing so, EMDR helps reduce the emotional intensity and negative beliefs tied to these memories, transforming them into more adaptive, empowering perspectives. Clients often experience significant relief from symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related conditions, with EMDR offering a pathway to profound healing and resilience. I have been incorporating EMDR into my practice since 2020 and have seen its transformative impact on clients. Its structured, phased approach ensures safety and stability throughout the therapeutic process, making it a versatile tool for addressing a wide range of emotional challenges. By guiding clients through this process, I’ve helped them achieve not only relief from symptoms but also a greater sense of emotional balance and personal growth. In my practice, I take an integrative approach to EMDR, tailoring each session to the client’s unique needs and journey. I often blend EMDR with other therapeutic modalities, such as Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Adlerian, Gestalt, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) approaches, as well as attachment-based techniques. This integration allows me to address the client’s needs holistically, meeting them where they are and creating a therapeutic process that feels both personalized and effective. Whether working with trauma, anxiety, or other mental health challenges, I use EMDR to help clients uncover and process what is holding them back while promoting resilience and emotional well-being. EMDR is not just a method; it’s a powerful tool for transformation, and I am honored to guide clients through this healing journey.
Play Therapy
Play therapy harnesses the therapeutic power of play to provide a safe and supportive environment for emotional and psychological healing, with children, adolescents, and adults of any age. Through play, clients can express thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a way that feels natural and non-threatening, bypassing the limitations of verbal communication. This approach is especially effective for those who may find it difficult to articulate their emotions or process complex experiences through words alone. In my practice, I use play and sandtray therapy as transformative tools to help clients explore their inner world, process trauma, and develop essential skills for resilience and well-being. These modalities allow clients to symbolically express and work through their struggles, fostering emotional expression, problem-solving, and self-discovery. Play therapy also supports the reduction of anxiety, the enhancement of self-esteem, and the development of healthier social interactions. For trauma work, play therapy offers a uniquely safe space where clients can confront and process distressing experiences at their own pace, guided by the creative and non-verbal language of play. By engaging with play, clients can build new perspectives, learn to navigate their emotions, and ultimately move toward healing and balance. Play therapy is one of the many approaches I use to support clients, integrated as needed based on individual preferences and therapeutic goals. Whether working with children, adolescents, or adults, I strive to create a compassionate and personalized space for healing and growth. My goal is always to collaborate with clients to find the methods that resonate most with them, ensuring the process feels supportive, empowering, and aligned with their unique needs.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a cornerstone of my therapeutic practice, and I have extensive experience using this evidence-based approach to help clients address a wide range of mental health concerns. CBT is highly effective in treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma by focusing on the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Through CBT, I help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns, replacing them with healthier, more constructive ways of thinking. In my practice, I integrate CBT with a variety of therapeutic modalities to create a comprehensive and individualized approach to healing. Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) helps clients identify practical steps toward achieving their goals. Reality Therapy emphasizes personal responsibility and decision-making aligned with one’s values and needs. Narrative Therapy supports clients in reframing their life stories to foster self-empowerment. I also incorporate creative and expressive modalities such as Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, Art Therapy, and Expressive Arts, as well as somatic approaches to address the physical and emotional dimensions of healing. Grounded in attachment theory, Adlerian, and Gestalt principles, my approach is holistic and flexible, ensuring the process meets each client’s unique needs. This integrative framework allows us to explore cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and physical challenges, creating a therapeutic process that is well-rounded and client-centered. By combining evidence-based and creative approaches, I strive to provide a space where clients feel supported, empowered, and equipped to navigate their healing journey. CBT fosters empowerment by encouraging clients to take an active role in their treatment. By learning to shift unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, clients often experience significant improvements in their mental and emotional health. My goal is to provide a compassionate and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences while building the skills needed for lasting positive change.
Grief Therapy
As a certified grief counselor trained by David Kessler, I work with clients through their grief and loss journey with compassion and understanding. Grief therapy is a deeply personal process, and my therapeutic approach is integrative and holistic, addressing multiple aspects of life to acknowledge, validate, and support healing. It is compassionate, person-centered, genuine, and non-judgmental, creating a safe space for individuals to fully experience their emotions and process their loss through the different stages of grief. In my practice, I combine empathetic support with practical strategies for coping and building resilience. Inspired by David Kessler’s work on meaning-making, I help clients go through their grief journey as they heal and honor their loved ones, exploring ways to find purpose and hope amidst their pain. I also draw on evidence-based approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to address overwhelming thoughts and emotions, and creative modalities like Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, Art Therapy, and Expressive Arts to provide alternative ways to process grief when words are not enough. Incorporating somatic approaches and mindfulness techniques, I support clients in addressing the physical toll of grief, fostering grounding and emotional stability. Grief therapy helps individuals navigate the complexities of loss and move toward healing and acceptance at their own pace. Whether we focus on reflective conversations, creative expression, or practical tools for emotional regulation, my goal is to provide a space where clients feel validated, supported, and empowered as they walk through their grief journey. Together, we can honor your unique experience and work toward rediscovering balance and peace.
Trauma Informed Care
Trauma-Informed Care is grounded in the core principles of safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. This approach acknowledges the pervasive impact of trauma on individuals' lives and prioritizes creating an environment that fosters healing and recovery. Trauma-informed care begins with understanding the effects of trauma on the mind, body, and spirit and seeks to provide a safe, supportive space where clients feel validated, respected, and understood. In my practice, I emphasize safety and trust, ensuring clients feel comfortable and in control throughout the therapeutic process. By reducing the risk of re-traumatization, I create a foundation where healing can unfold at a pace that feels right for each individual. Collaboration is key—I work closely with clients to develop individualized treatment plans that address the unique and complex effects of their trauma, integrating their voice and preferences into every step of their healing journey. Trauma-informed care also focuses on empowerment, helping clients reclaim a sense of agency and build resilience. Through shared decision-making and a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, I encourage clients to actively participate in their recovery, fostering self-advocacy and sustainable growth. Whether addressing trauma-related symptoms, enhancing coping skills, or promoting overall well-being, trauma-informed care supports meaningful healing and a renewed sense of hope. This approach isn’t just a method—it’s a philosophy that informs every aspect of my work, ensuring that clients feel seen, heard, and supported as they move toward recovery and resilience.