I identify as queer, fat, femme and have a mixture of indigenous and colonizer DNA. I share this first because the way we identify matters. So many reasons and factors stop us from being ourselves around others and often, when we can't fully live who we are, our mental health suffers. If that's you, I'm here to help. We can work through body image issues, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, trauma, conflict management together if you're willing to do the work of honestly engaging in therapy with me. I grew up on the East Coast to immigrant parents from Colombia and lived in SoCal for 15 years and recently moved back home to be near my parents. I have a rescued pitbull that bring me lots of peace and joy and you might see him napping behind me via telehealth sessions. I enjoy hiking, cooking, reading (fiction for fun), and taking care of my indoor plants. I love learning about indigenous wisdom/practices from all over the world, herbalism, tarot, and other healing practices and beliefs that folks use to find meaning and wellness. Last but not least, I really love my job! And I do it because I believe in it and have witnessed so many people shift, grow, break patterns and learn new ones that significantly improve quality of life.

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

The first session can feel a bit awkward because we have to go over logistical info, go over symptoms to provide a diagnosis as well as create a treatment plan. Insurance companies require this and it's a lot to do in a first session so it can sometimes feel uncomfortable or like it's too much for one session. I always try and do my best to make the first session as welcoming and warm as possible, just know this is not what a typical therapy session looks/feels like with me.

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

I enjoy meeting with folks that are working through body image issues, past and/or current trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, anxiety, depression, conflict management issues, loneliness and relationship issues (platonic and romantic). One of my biggest strengths is working with folks to communicate with others in a way that leads to healthier connections and just an overall feeling of being understood. I meet with folks individually for sessions but I love working with the support community of any client and am happy to invite friends/family for sessions with a client every now and again, if appropriate.

About Erica Ariza