I have been practicing for over 10 years and it has been my passion from the beginning. I obtained my Master's degree at the University of Southern California with a concentration in Health and Mental Health. Working in mental health comes from a deep desire to help others. I have always been extremely curious and passionate about learning how the mind works and what drives certain behaviors. I am inspired by human resilience and I am privileged to be in a field where I am able to support others discover, learn about themselves, and heal from intergenerational wounds, unhealthy patterns, and so forth. I genuinely believe that you as the client are the expert of your own life and I am here to guide you through your individual journey and human growth. I provide a comforting, compassionate, and free of judgment space. My approach is collaborative and deeply rooted in trying to help you understand yourself better and where certain obstacles in your life may be coming from and how to make changes in order to create a fulfilling life. In sessions, you will notice that I will meet you where you are and guide you to continue moving forward.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During our first therapy session, I will gather information about your symptoms and ask open-ended questions to better understand you. We will explore and identify your needs, and together we will work on setting goals for your treatment. At the end of the session, I will provide you with an opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the therapy process.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I am proud of my ability to establish trust and a strong collaborative environment with my clients. I enjoy working with clients from diverse range of backgrounds, from young adults to older adults.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I work with high functioning clients; young adult professionals, Undergrad and Graduate students, first generation college students, clients who are experiencing mild to moderate anxiety or depression, have challenges with ADHD, are experiencing relationship issues, family conflict, existential concerns, burnout, high stress, adjustment to changes and are seeking to learning healthy coping skills.
About Erica Garcia
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I've been using CBT in my practice for the past 10+. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented type of psychotherapy. It helps clients identify and challenge reoccurring unhelpful thought patterns that negatively impact their feelings and behavior. Through this method I assist clients challenge unhealthy thinking patterns that can lead to depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, etc.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
Culturally sensitive therapy has a big influence on the therapeutic relationship. Culture determines how we perceive the world around us and it plays a big influence in how we see ourselves. In my practice, I hold space for different opinions, value systems, beliefs and experiences.
Psychodynamic
Psychodynamic Therapy aims to help clients become more self-aware, confront inner conflict, and understand the foundation and formation of their psychological processes and behavioral patterns. This method is open-ended and less structured, it allows clients to lead the conversation and explore their emotions, relationships and past experiences in an authentic and uninhibited way. Through this process I help clients explore their early childhood experiences and attachments, past and current relationship issues, coping styles and defense mechanisms. With the intension of bringing self-awareness, growth and the opportunity to redefined and take control of who they want to be in the NOW.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
This method allows my clients to take the lead, to practice curiosity and exploration of their concerns and areas they would like to work on when they come to session. It helps with developing self-awareness, self-acknowledgment, accountability and self-discovery. I am committed to supporting my clients autonomy and empowering them to make decisions at their own pace. Through this approach, I guide clients with reflective, open-ended questions that encourage self-exploration and insight. Additionally, I integrate various therapeutic modalities, such as CBT and mindfulness practice, to enhance the therapeutic process and help clients maximize their growth and experience in therapy.