LCPC, 13 years of experience
New to Grow
Flexibility, welcoming / safe space, non-judgmental, and compassionate are some of the values I bring to the counseling sessions. I hold a doctoral degree in counseling with specializations in clinical mental health and clinical rehabilitation counseling. If you feel you are stuck in life and want to make changes in your life, career or future planning I'm here for you.
In the first session, is important to have introduction, identify needs, review the intake questionnaire, identity presenting concern and what brings you to the treatment. Finalize, with questions, interest, needs, strengths, and expectations with a time frame.
I am a person centered clinician where for me the most important thing is that each of my clients feel supported, comfortable and hear in our sessions. Counseling for me represents a journey where some persons might require less time to accomplish their goals versus other that might need extra time. I support each clients journey identifying their values, strengths, capacities and most importantly healing and working toward your goals. I believe in the importance of developing and having a Positive Mental Attitude and being grateful for everything we are able to achieve in life. Everyday we have the opportunity to start again, and make the best of every challenge in a learning opportunity.
I believe in the power of connection (rapport), active listening, mutual understanding, and clear expectations counselor - client expectations are the foundation to create safe counseling spaces. My years of experience had afforded me the opportunity to work with suburban, rural suburban and rural populations in Illinois and Puerto Rico.
Dr. Cruz had a Post Doctoral fellowship in Trauma, and holds over 13 years of experience working with diverse populations aged from 5 to 85 years old. Treatment modalities include a balance of Cognitive Behavior therapy, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, including other important aspects of each client as their socioeconomic, educational, career, and family goals.
Through a compassionate and warmth style Dr. Cruz provides a the opportunity for each patient to feel hear, welcome and supported with solutions to their needs. Goals are set to keep progress but with the realistic expectations of adjusting to the emerging needs of life.