Janell Cruz, LCSW - Therapist at Grow Therapy

Janell Cruz

Janell Cruz

(she/her)

LCSW
19 years of experience
Virtual

Hi, I’m Janell — a proud Latina, mama, and licensed therapist who keeps it real. Since 2007, I’ve been helping people navigate the ups and downs of life — from heartbreaks and stress to burnout and self-doubt. I specialize in supporting individuals and families (especially women and kids) through healing, growth, and real transformation. My vibe? It’s all about creating a safe, honest space where you can show up as you are — messy, emotional, evolving — and still feel supported. I’ve got a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in social work from FIU. I’m a licensed clinical social worker in both Florida and Virginia. My work blends traditional therapy (diagnosis, treatment, all that important stuff) with a more holistic approach — tapping into mindset shifts, energy work like EFT (tapping), and helping you reconnect with your intuition, values, and purpose. I’ve worked with folks from all walks of life — diverse cultures, disabilities, complicated family dynamics — and I know healing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you’re dealing with stress, trauma, or just feeling stuck and disconnected, I’m here to help you come back to you. We’ll look at what’s weighing you down and shift the energy around it. We’ll reframe the stories that no longer serve you. And we’ll create space for joy, clarity, and freedom — emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Wherever you are on your journey, I’ll meet you there — with compassion, humor, and some no-nonsense love. Let’s get to work.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

Our first session is all about getting to know you — no pressure, no judgment. We'll take our time to talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, what’s been weighing on you lately, and what you’d like to get out of our work together. I’ll ask some questions to better understand your story, your goals, and any stressors or patterns you’ve been noticing. But more importantly, I’ll hold space for you to just be real — whether that means venting, crying, laughing, or not knowing where to start. That’s okay. I want you to leave the first session feeling heard and supported, with a sense that we’re a good fit and a plan to move forward. Therapy with me is collaborative and conversational, so we’ll go at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you. Whether you’re coming in for clarity, healing, growth, or all of the above — you’re already taking the first step. I’ll meet you where you’re at.

The treatment methods and tools I utilize

I take a holistic and culturally sensitive approach that honors the connection between the mind, body, and spirit. My goal is to help you not just cope—but heal, grow, and thrive from the inside out. Together, we’ll identify what’s already working well in your life, and we’ll build on your strengths and inner resources to help you navigate whatever stress, pain, or uncertainty you’re facing. I also offer Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), also known as “tapping,” as an option in sessions. EFT is a gentle but powerful method that involves tapping on specific acupressure points while focusing on difficult thoughts, emotions, or sensations. This technique helps regulate the nervous system, release stuck energy, and support emotional balance. Many clients find it deeply grounding—especially when traditional talk therapy isn’t enough on its own. Whether we’re working through anxiety, trauma, burnout, or life transitions, I integrate mind-body practices and practical tools to help you feel more aligned, resilient, and connected to yourself.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

My greatest strengths lie in helping people reconnect with themselves when life feels overwhelming, stagnant, or uncertain. I specialize in working with individuals who feel stuck, lost, or weighed down by stress, self-doubt, or life transitions. Many of my clients come to me feeling disconnected from their sense of purpose — and I love walking alongside them as they begin to remember who they are, what they want, and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. I’m especially skilled at helping people who are afraid to leave their comfort zone — not because they’re not capable, but because fear, past experiences, or pressure to please others has kept them playing small. Whether it’s starting something new, letting go of what no longer fits, or learning how to prioritize their own voice, I support my clients in exploring these shifts in a way that feels safe, empowering, and culturally attuned. My approach blends insight with action, so clients feel supported in not only understanding what’s going on, but also learning tools to shift patterns, calm the nervous system, and step into their next chapter — with courage and corazón.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

My ideal clients are people who are ready to do the inner work — even if they’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of where to start. I work best with individuals who are navigating major life transitions, high stress, complicated relationships, or emotional burnout. Many of my clients are empaths, cycle-breakers, creatives, professionals, or women of color trying to reclaim their voice and identity in spaces that haven’t always made room for them. I’m especially attuned to working with adults healing from family dysfunction, people-pleasing, anxiety, grief, or past trauma — and those who are finally ready to stop living for everyone else. If you're trying to show up for yourself while balancing family, work, and cultural expectations, I get it — and you're not alone. My approach is heart-centered, direct, and rooted in both evidence-based therapy and soul-level growth. Together, we’ll work toward emotional freedom, healthier relationships, and a life that actually feels like yours.

About Janell Cruz

Appointments

Virtual