New to Grow
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker and have over 18 years experience working with individuals and families. My therapeutic approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. If you’re looking for a therapist who is genuine, supportive, and focused on helping you feel more grounded and confident in your life, I’d be honored to work with you! I have an array of experience working with diverse cultures, ethnicities, the LGBTQ community, and various socio-economic backgrounds. In the beginning stages of my career, I worked with teenagers in foster care settings, alternative schools, and college students with disabilities. A few years later, I transitioned into working with adults and seniors in hospital settings, home health, hospice care, skilled nursing and assisted living facilities. I am also a certified financial social worker, and by client request, am open to work with my clients on improving their financial health by addressing the emotional, behavioral, and psychological factors behind money management. My primary language is English and my second language is Spanish (Intermediate level). I enjoy speaking Spanglish, traveling, and learning other languages and cultures as well!
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Your first therapy session is a chance for us to get to know each other and talk about what led up to you reaching out. Getting to know my clients is an ongoing process in every session. I value and respect meeting exactly where you are and moving at a pace that feels right for you. We may talk about what you’re hoping to work on or ask any questions or concerns you may have. There’s no pressure to share more than you’re comfortable with. Reaching out for help can be a big step, and my goal is to create a safe space where you feel comfortable being yourself — no judgment, no pressure, and no need to have everything figured out.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical.I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all model for therapy — instead, I tailor our work to your needs, strengths, and goals. I believe therapy is not about labeling, mental health diagnoses, or "fixing" you. As your therapist I am here to help you better understand yourself, build on your strengths, and cultivate healthy coping skills that support your goals.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I serve clients who may be struggling with life and career transitions, relationships, grief, short-term/chronic/life limiting illnesses, short/long term disabilities, death and dying, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. We will work to increase self-awareness, identify patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and celebrate your victories. I invite you to embark on your journey of self exploration and it would be an honor to walk alongside you!
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy with my clients as a technique to help them better understand themselves in order to make the meaningful changes they desire. I ensure to maintain a supportive and warm environment for my clients to gain the insight and skills that are conducive to reaching their goals. I gently guide my clients in exploring and identifying their patterns and empower them to implement the changes to become "unstuck" in those patterns. I explore with my clients how they can break their own cycles of self-defeating thoughts and improve their overall mental and emotional well being.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
I use solution focused brief treatment for my clients as a hope and future-oriented experience, rather than focusing on prolonged problem analysis. I assist the client on focusing on their strengths and what is working for them. I empower my clients to build upon their skills and continue to reframe their goals in an achievable manner.
Strength-Based
As part of my practice, I routinely assess my client's support systems which include their family, friends, spiritual and cultural communities. I assess their coping strategies and invite my clients on a self-exploration of moments when they overcame their own hardships. I explore with the client on what coping skills work for them. I acknowledge my clients' pain and strive to cultivate a safe and patient space for clients to process their grief, trauma, and anxieties. I do not minimize or dismiss as I provide active listening.