Abel Garcia, LCSW - Therapist at Grow Therapy

Abel Garcia

Abel Garcia

(he/him)

LCSW
1 year of experience
Virtual

Hi, I'm Abel Garcia, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over two decades of experience in the mental health field. My journey began in 1999, working in child and family welfare, and has since evolved into a dedicated practice focused on helping individuals aged 13 and up navigate life's challenges. I believe it is important to create a sense of safety and security in my practice. With safety comes vulnerability, and when we reach that space we will do our best work to help you feel seen, accepted, heard, and loved. Throughout my career, I've supported clients through a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties, including those who feel overwhelmed by the stresses of life, are battling low moods, or find themselves constantly worrying. Whether it's the weight of the past, the pressures of the present, or concerns about the future, I work alongside you to help ease these burdens. I specialize in trauma, adult ADHD, disordered eating, and body image/self-worth concerns. My therapeutic approach is integrative, combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with humanistic techniques to create a holistic, strength-based experience for my clients. Having faced my own struggles with body image and self-worth, as well as managing ADHD as an adult, I understand the importance of having a safe, supportive space where you can be vulnerable and feel truly understood. Therapy with me is a partnership where you can expect to be met with empathy, humor, and a genuine desire to help you uncover your strengths and achieve your goals. For those who may find it difficult to open up—especially men. My goal is to create a space where you can tackle what’s on your mind without feeling judged or pushed. We’ll work at your pace, focusing on what matters most to you.

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

When working with me, expect a compassionate, trauma-informed approach. My intake process involves a thorough exploration of your history, focusing on how past experiences shape current challenges. I prioritize building trust and understanding your unique needs. Progress with me looks like gaining self-awareness, addressing root causes of distress, and developing healthier coping strategies. Deep emotional healing and personal growth are priority focuses of my practice.

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

I believe my greatest strengths as a provider lie in my ability to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel genuinely understood and valued. My integrative approach, which combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with humanistic techniques, allows me to tailor therapy to each client's unique needs, ensuring a personalized and effective experience. Another key strength is my adaptability. Whether a client prefers a more casual, relaxed session or a focused, goal-oriented approach, I’m able to meet them where they are, adjusting my style to best support their journey. My background in social work has also equipped me with expert-level knowledge in identifying needs, connecting clients with resources, and understanding the cultural and community dynamics that impact their lives. Additionally, my personal experiences with ADHD and body image issues have given me a deep, empathetic understanding of these challenges. I use this insight to help clients navigate similar struggles, offering not only professional expertise but also a relatable perspective. Finally, my sense of humor and ability to incorporate joy into therapy, when appropriate, help to create a therapeutic environment that is both effective and engaging.

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I utilize an integrative approach that combines elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Humanistic Therapy techniques. CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. Changing those maladaptive thoughts and behaviors can lead to changes in emotions and overall mental health. Humanistic therapy techniques are client-centered and focus on the whole person, including their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It aims to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their feelings and achieve personal growth.

Abel Garcia, LCSW