**As of 1/22/23 Dr. Morel will only be accepting clients over the age of 13** **Currently not accepting couples** Hi, I`m Dr. Karla Morel! When dealing with personal and family issues, I believe compassion, experience, and individual attention lead to positive outcomes and growth. My passion for working with children, adolescents and families has been molded by almost 15 years of experience in an array of community outreach settings serving both children and adults. I share a dedicated interest in multicultural issues and use an individual's cultural background to inform treatment. As a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist, I aim to provide all my clients with the quality mental health services they deserve. I was born in Mexico City, but I have lived most of my life in sunny Southern California. My educational and professional interests have always involved the promotion of mental health and well-being in BIPOC communities. In 2021, I became a mommy for the first time to my daughter. In 2022, I completed my Psy.D. in Couples and Family Therapy at Alliant International University. My dissertation and previous research are focused on parent-child attachment in families where work-migration is common. My interests are currently on a hiatus while being a new mom but my current favorite is watching irreverent comedies with my husband. I also enjoy taking our two dogs, Polly and Millie, to the local dog beach. I self-identify as a cisgender female. Pronouns: she, her, hers.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Your first session with a therapist can be intimidating. This is why my first question to all new clients is "What is your experience with therapy?" Based on their response I will either carefully explain what will take place during our session and leave plenty of time for client questions. If clients have had experience with therapy I try to gather brief information on what that experience was like and give a quick overview of what will be covered during their first session. Sessions usually take place in the following order: *Introduction and Ice-Breaking *Discussing Confidentiality *Clarifying Goals and Expectations *Assessment and History *Addressing Questions and Concerns *Setting Collaborative Goals
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
One of my biggest strengths is my consideration of Culture when working with individuals. This is not just limited to ethnic identity, but all of the other facets that comprise our wonderful identities (developmental phases in life, disability, socio-economic status, religion/spirituality, etc.)
About Dr. Karla Morel
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Culturally Sensitive Therapy
Culturally sensitive therapy is an approach in psychotherapy that takes into consideration the cultural background, values, beliefs, and experiences of the client. The goal is to provide mental health care that is respectful, relevant, and effective for individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. This approach recognizes that cultural factors play a significant role in shaping one's worldview, identity, and understanding of mental health.
Narrative
Narrative therapy is an approach to psychotherapy that focuses on the stories people tell about their lives. It is rooted in the idea that individuals construct their understanding of themselves and the world through the stories they create. This therapeutic approach aims to help individuals examine and reframe these narratives to bring about positive change and empowerment. It is often used to address a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a therapeutic approach that explores and works with the different parts of an individual's internal system. IFS is based on the premise that the mind is composed of various sub-personalities or "parts," each with its own unique characteristics, emotions, and functions. The goal of IFS therapy is to help individuals understand, harmonize, and integrate these different parts to achieve a greater sense of self-awareness and well-being.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used and evidence-based therapeutic approach that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. CBT is grounded in the idea that our thoughts and beliefs influence our emotions and behaviors. The goal of CBT is to identify and modify negative or unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, leading to positive changes in emotional well-being.