April Zaragoza, LMHC - Therapist at Grow Therapy

April Zaragoza

April Zaragoza

(she/her)

LMHC
5 years of experience
Virtual

It’s not uncommon to feel lost at times, especially when life feels like it's pulling you in all directions. If you’re looking to better understand yourself, your emotions, and the patterns that might be holding you back from living the life you want, I’m here to help. What I’ve learned in my years of therapy work is that lasting change only happens when there’s a genuine connection between client and therapist. That’s why I show up as my true, authentic self in every session. I create a space where you can feel safe, supported, and understood—no judgment, no pressure. Just a warm, inviting space for you to be yourself. I believe in being honest and transparent, which means I might gently challenge your perspectives and help you see where you might be getting in your own way. It’s not about criticism; it’s about growth, and I’ll always meet you with empathy and respect along the way. There may be times I fumble my words or forget what I am saying because I am human too. I understand that therapy can be intimidating or even awkward at times, and I embrace that with you. What matters is that we’re in this together. In our work together, you are in the driver's seat. You’ll guide us in the direction you want to go. Sometimes that will mean tackling external stressors like work, relationships, or family issues. Other times, it might mean diving into deeper, internal struggles—because often, once we work on strengthening our inner world, we can approach external challenges with more confidence and clarity. Whether you're looking to develop a healthier mindset, explore your emotions, or build more self-compassion, my focus will always be on supporting you as you take small, meaningful steps forward. We’ll celebrate even the smallest victories, because every win counts.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

The first session is an opportunity for me to get background information to begin to understand you and what you are going through. It is also an opportunity for you to learn the type of therapist I am and how I may be helpful. Together we will tailor treatment to meet your goals and desired outcomes.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

My greatest strength as a therapist is my honesty and sincerity. Both help me create a safe environment for my clients and help me create genuine connections with my clients.

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Our thoughts drive our feelings and behaviors. I help client's identify negative/unhelpful thoughts that inhibit them from living the life they want. I then teach them new ways of thinking in order to be the best versions of themselves. Together we work together to find the best baby steps to take to gain relief from their internal struggles.

Trauma-Focused CBT

In the past, I worked with children who experienced sexual and physical abuse. I was trained in TF-CBT and conducted it for many years. TF-CBT focuses on educating clients around abuse and trauma symptoms, teaching relaxation techniques, correcting cognitive distortions, exposing clients to trauma reminders in a gentle way, and creating a narrative to rewrite their stories with the goal to heal.

Trauma Informed Care

When conducting therapy, I use a trauma informed lens. I understand the importance of creating a safe and trusting environment for my clients. I make sure my clients are highly involved in the therapy process and they are the ones making the decisions in sessions and what treatment look like.

Psychodynamic

Therapy with me is a exploratory process. We dig into the internal dialogue and processes that are keeping you stuck and find ways to overcome barriers to achieve what it is you want.