Welcome! With over 18 years of experience and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology granted at the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, I am best positioned to serve individuals and families navigating challenges such as family conflicts, trauma, PTSD, and anxiety. My therapeutic expertise extends across various cultural contexts, having practiced in Puerto Rico and Massachusetts, and currently holding active licenses in Maryland and Virginia.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
The first session is an opportunity for us to get acquainted, discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, and outline our shared objectives. I will establish a roadmap for our work together and ensure that you feel heard, supported, and empowered from the very beginning. I aim to create a collaborative environment, laying the foundation for a therapeutic partnership built on trust and understanding.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My greatest strengths lie in my ability to empathetically connect with clients, drawing on evidence-based approaches tailored to their unique needs. I am adept at fostering a safe space for exploration, equipping clients with practical tools to navigate challenges, and empowering them to create lasting positive change.
About Dr. Carlos J. Carmona-Goyena
Dr. Carlos J. Carmona-Goyena offers therapy covered by Kaiser Permanente - Medicaid and UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid in Virginia.
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
With a solid foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I integrate evidence-based practices to address the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My approach involves collaborative goal-setting, identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, and implementing behavior modification strategies. I utilize cognitive restructuring techniques to empower clients in reshaping maladaptive thinking, fostering emotional regulation, and promoting positive behavioral change. Homework assignments and skill-building exercises are integral components of my CBT practice, ensuring that clients develop practical tools to manage challenges outside of the therapy session.
Mind-body approach
My experience with the mind-body approach encompasses a holistic perspective that recognizes the interconnectedness of mental and physical well-being. Grounded in practices such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and biofeedback, I guide clients in cultivating awareness of the mind-body connection. This approach involves exploring how emotions and stress impact physical health and vice versa. I integrate somatic interventions to address symptoms of anxiety, trauma, and stress-related disorders. By promoting self-regulation and body awareness, I empower clients to enhance their overall well-being through a balanced integration of mental and physical health.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
In my practice of Mindfulness-Based Therapy, I incorporate mindfulness principles and meditation techniques to enhance clients' awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations. I guide clients in cultivating a non-judgmental and present-focused mindset, promoting acceptance and self-compassion. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) are integral components of my approach, particularly for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, or chronic pain. I facilitate the development of mindfulness skills that clients can integrate into their daily lives, fostering long-term emotional well-being and resilience.
Relational
In my practice of Relational Therapy, I draw upon my extensive experience to explore the patterns and dynamics present in individual relationships. I place a strong emphasis on the therapeutic relationship between the client and myself, recognizing it as a microcosm of the client's broader relational patterns. I delve into the client's past experiences to uncover relational patterns and attachments that may impact current relationships. My interventions focus on enhancing self-awareness, improving communication skills, and fostering healthier connections. I actively engage in the therapeutic relationship, providing a secure space for clients to explore and reshape their relational narratives.
Family Therapy
As a seasoned psychotherapist, my expertise in Family Therapy involves a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics within family systems. I employ a systemic approach, considering the family as an interconnected unit where each member plays a vital role. My interventions focus on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and fostering a healthier family environment. I use techniques such as genograms to visually map out family relationships and histories, facilitating a deeper exploration of intergenerational patterns. Emphasizing empathy and open communication, I work collaboratively with family members to address issues collectively, aiming for positive systemic change.