Ingrid Hernandez, LMHC - Therapist at Grow Therapy

Ingrid Hernandez

Ingrid Hernandez

LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual

Hi! I'm Ingrid and I'm passionate about helping young adults thrive. I have a compassionate and dedicated approach specializing in helping individuals navigate challenges related to anxiety, trauma, and life changes. My approach is characterized by warmth, authenticity, and directness, creating a safe space for clients to share their experiences openly. I believe in empowering clients by helping them recognize their strengths and develop effective coping strategies. With a focus on collaborative problem-solving, I tailor my methods to fit each individual's unique needs and goals. Together, we will work towards fostering resilience and meaningful change in your life.

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

In their first session, clients can expect a warm and welcoming environment where they will be encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings openly. I start by explaining the therapy process, including confidentiality and what they can expect moving forward. We’ll discuss their reasons for seeking therapy and any specific goals they hope to achieve. Additionally, I will take the time to listen actively and ask questions to gain a better understanding of their background and current challenges, helping to build a foundation for our work together. Overall, the first session is about establishing rapport and ensuring clients feel comfortable and supported as they begin their therapeutic journey.

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

My directness, warmth, and authenticity in approach helps fosters a safe and open therapeutic environment. I'm empathetic and compassionate, allowing clients to feel understood and supported as they navigate their challenges. I also possess strong active listening skills, ensuring clients feel heard and validated. Additionally, my cultural competence enables me to respect and integrate diverse backgrounds into treatment, while my flexibility and adaptability allow me to tailor interventions to meet each client's unique needs. These strengths, combined with my commitment to continuous learning and evidence-based practices, enhance the overall effectiveness of my therapy.

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

My dream client is an individual navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, or trauma while experiencing significant life transitions. They possess a willingness to engage in the therapeutic process and explore their thoughts and feelings openly. This client is motivated to develop coping strategies and gain insight into their experiences, recognizing the potential for growth through adversity. Together, we can work towards building resilience and fostering a sense of empowerment as they navigate these pivotal moments in their lives.

About Ingrid Hernandez

Ingrid Hernandez offers therapy covered by Husky Health and Medicaid in Connecticut.

Identifies as

Specializes in

AnxietyTrauma and PTSDSelf Esteem

Serves ages

Appointments

Fully booked

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

In my therapy sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to their emotional distress. By encouraging clients to recognize how their thoughts influence their feelings and behaviors, we work together to develop healthier, more constructive thinking habits. I also guide clients in implementing practical strategies, such as behavioral experiments and exposure tasks, to test their beliefs and gradually build coping skills for managing anxiety and stress. Through this process, clients gain greater insight and develop tools to create lasting change in their lives.

Trauma-Focused CBT

In our sessions, I utilize Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) to help clients process and heal from traumatic experiences. This approach integrates cognitive-behavioral techniques with trauma-sensitive interventions, allowing clients to safely explore their thoughts and feelings related to trauma. We work on developing coping skills to manage distressing emotions and create a narrative around their experiences, empowering them to reframe their thoughts and regain a sense of control. By fostering a supportive and validating environment, clients can gradually confront and integrate their trauma, leading to improved emotional well-being and resilience.

Solution Focused Brief Treatment

In my practice, I employ Solution-Focused Brief Treatment (SFBT) to help clients identify their strengths and resources as we work towards specific goals. This approach emphasizes finding solutions rather than delving into problems, encouraging clients to envision their preferred future and explore the steps needed to achieve it. I guide clients in recognizing past successes and strategies that have worked for them, fostering a sense of empowerment and motivation. By maintaining a forward-focused perspective, clients are able to create actionable plans that lead to meaningful change in a relatively short time.