Se ofrece Psicoterapia en Español! You are feeling worried or depressed, or just tired of the everyday routine and desiring more in life? Or do you worry about your son or daughter’s anxiety, depression, pessimism, or their behaviors out of control? Or as a parent do you feel lost, exhausted, or alone? As humans big or small, we all go through challenging times, we all experience sadness, worry, and stress. However, there are times that we might feel too stuck, too lost, and too overwhelmed to do anything. Life doesn’t have to stay this way. I can help you turn things around and move toward living your absolute best life ever! I offer therapy to help children, teens, & adults who are going through depression, anxiety, personal growth/self-esteem issues, life transitions, ADHD, and parental struggles. I will provide insight, strategies, tools, and empowerment to help you or your loved one transform. I'm caring, genuine, and yet direct which facilitates change and growth. Whether you or your loved one is facing an emotional, social, or behavioral challenge, I am here to help. I want to support your capacity to “respond”, rather than “react”. It is time to transform suffering into opportunities for growth. Let’s bring health & harmony back into your life and home! Call or visit my website to request a free consultation with me!
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Clients can expect a structured and supportive experience in their first session, tailored to the virtual environment. Here’s what typically happens: 1. Introductions and Confidentiality: I introduce myself and explain the confidentiality protocols. 2. Establishing Goals and Expectations: We discuss clients' reasons for seeking therapy and what they hope to achieve. This helps us establish clear therapeutic goals and ensures our sessions are focused on their needs and priorities. 3. Assessment and Information Gathering: I conduct an initial assessment to gather information about clients' background, current challenges, and mental health history. This helps me understand their unique situation and tailor our approach accordingly. 4. Explaining Therapeutic Approach: I describe my therapeutic approach. I may discuss specific techniques we could use, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, or solution-focused therapy, depending on their needs. 5. Building Rapport and Comfort: Building a trusting therapeutic relationship is essential. I create a supportive environment where clients feel safe to express themselves and discuss sensitive topics. I encourage open communication and address any questions or concerns they may have. 6. Discussing Practicalities: We review logistics such as scheduling future sessions, payment methods, and administrative details relevant to our ongoing work together. 7. Closure and Feedback: Towards the end of the session, I summarize what we've discussed and ensure clients have an opportunity to ask questions or provide feedback. I clarify next steps and offer resources or homework assignments if appropriate. Throughout the first session and beyond, I emphasize flexibility and collaboration to ensure that clients feel empowered and supported in their journey towards improved mental health.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I offer therapy to children, teens, and adults going through depression, anxiety, personal growth/self-esteem issues, life transitions, ADHD, and parental struggles.
About Jessica Barreto
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I collaborate closely with my clients to pinpoint specific thoughts and behaviors that may be contributing to their difficulties. Utilizing various techniques including challenging negative thoughts, reframing, conducting behavioral experiments, and assigning homework, my clients develop the skills to challenge and alter their maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors. For instance, if a client is struggling with social anxiety, I assist them in identifying negative thought patterns such as catastrophizing ("Everyone will think I'm awkward and boring") and avoidance behaviors (shying away from social situations altogether). Together, we work to challenge these thoughts, cultivate more realistic beliefs ("Some people may not find me interesting, but that's okay"), and little by little expose them to feared social situations to diminish avoidance tendencies.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I work with my clients to cultivate psychological flexibility which is the ability to adaptively respond to the ever-changing circumstances of life. This is achieved through various processes, including mindfulness, acceptance, cognitive defusion (learning to see thoughts as mental events rather than literal truths), values clarification, and committed action. For example, if my client is struggling with low self-esteem. I might teach mindfulness techniques to help my client observe their critical self-talk and feelings without judgment and assist them in identifying actions that align with their values, such as practicing self-compassion. By incorporating values clarification and mindfulness exercises, the client begins to develop a more accepting and compassionate relationship with themselves, leading to improved self-esteem and a more balanced view of the world over time.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I work with clients to identify their specific challenges and goals. I focus on building skills in four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. Through structured exercises and discussions, my clients learn practical strategies to manage their emotions, cope with distressing situations, build fulfilling relationships, and live more meaningful lives. For example, if my client is struggling with anger. I work with my clients to cultivate techniques such as mindfulness and emotional regulation skills (labeling emotions, identifying triggers, and exploring the function of emotions) to help the client manage overwhelming emotions. Through practice and guidance, the client learns practical strategies to cope with distressing situations and improve emotional regulation.