(she/her)
My name is Irma Lerma, LMFT, and I am a seasoned bilingual and bicultural psychotherapist with deep roots in both the Mexican culture and the diverse Bay Area community. Raised in a multicultural environment, I understand the nuances of identity and the complex interplay between cultural values and personal experiences. This background shapes my approach to therapy, where I prioritize creating a safe and respectful space for clients of all cultural backgrounds. My primary focus is helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and grief. I believe that emotional well-being is interconnected with one’s sense of self and cultural identity, and I strive to honor that in every session. One of the unique aspects of my practice is my integration of art therapy. I find that art provides a powerful, non-verbal way for clients to express emotions that may be difficult to articulate with words alone. Through various forms of creative expression, clients are able to explore their inner world, uncover hidden feelings, and challenge negative thought patterns in a way that promotes healing. Whether through drawing, painting, or other artistic forms, the process of creation can be both cathartic and transformative, allowing clients to reconnect with their emotions and reclaim a sense of control in their lives. My goal is always to help clients move toward a place of self-awareness, self-compassion, and ultimately, personal growth.
During your first session with me I will ask questions not only get to know you, but also figure out what is bringing you to therapy. I like to build trust with my clients so that they feel comfortable working through different issues that are not always easy to talk about.
My greatest strength is actively listening, respecting, and validating who you are. I believe that all people deserve love, compassion, and a safe place to express difficult emotions.
I want to work with people that want to make positive changes in their life and are actively seeking to improve their relationship with their mental health. I have worked with young adults, middle age, and I have worked with various age groups. I am also prepared to work with different racial backgrounds than myself.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Throughout my years of experience I have found that what you think, feel, and do are related to what you want in life. Therefore I work with my clients to change their thoughts to have a more productive positive outcome in what they want to accomplish in life.
Trauma-Focused CBT
I have also worked with clients that have had traumatic experiences and want to process emotions and thoughts surrounding the event that caused them to reach out for help.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
I have had experience working with clients of different cultural and ethnic backgrounds especially Hispanic or Latino communities. My parents were immigrants therefore I am equipped to discuss complex identity or cultural experiences.
Grief Therapy
I have had experience with helping clients deal with loss of parents, children, and identity through my practice. I often incorporate art, journaling, and other creative outlets to help my clients process their grief, sorrow or loss.