My background in fine arts from a young age got me closer to getting in touch with my own emotions and those of others. I earned a BA in psychology and mental health and an MS in psychology with a major in marriage and family therapy while still practicing fine arts. That journey helped me develop my calling for psychology and helping people improve their lives, serving as a guide. I'm very joyful and empathetic and a great listener! I have worked in community mental health centers, private practice, and nonprofit organizations with individuals, couples, and families struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, grief, and loss, among other life challenges. I’m a very holistic therapist with a postmodernist approach; I provide individualized interventions depending on your specific needs and offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can start your healing process while I guide you through it.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
The initial session is considered an intake session, during which we establish a therapeutic alliance and begin building rapport. In this session, I invite you to share about yourself, including your history, background, and the reasons that led you to seek therapy. After assessing your needs, I collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. My approach includes assigning relevant homework, with each session designed to be a safe, non-judgmental space for growth. I value working with clients who are committed and motivated to embrace positive change.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I'm very joyful and empathetic and a great listener! I like to be proactive and provide Evidenced-based Practices interventions aimed to alleviate symptoms.
About Marinel Gonzalez
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT helps clients shift from automatic, often unhelpful responses to healthier, more adaptive ways of thinking and behaving. This structured approach has proven effective in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and a range of other mental health issues.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) works with clients to identify and explore their underlying emotional experiences and attachment needs. By guiding clients through these emotions and reshaping unhelpful patterns, the therapist helps build healthier, more secure connections in relationships. This approach is particularly effective in couples therapy but is also valuable for individuals, as it fosters deeper self-awareness and emotional regulation.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness-Based Therapy (MBT) helps clients develop awareness of their present-moment experiences, including thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations, without judgment. By cultivating mindfulness skills, clients learn to observe and accept difficult emotions rather than react impulsively, which can reduce stress and increase emotional resilience. This approach is particularly effective for managing anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) collaborates with clients to identify their strengths and focus on solutions rather than problems. By setting clear, achievable goals and building on past successes, the therapist helps clients envision their desired future and recognize small steps toward it. This goal-oriented approach is particularly effective for brief interventions, fostering hope and quick progress.
Strength-Based
Strengths-Based Therapy focuses on identifying and utilizing the client’s inherent strengths and resources to overcome challenges. By highlighting resilience, past successes, and personal abilities, the therapist empowers clients to build self-confidence and foster positive change. This approach helps clients reframe their perspectives, promoting growth and resilience in facing future difficulties.