Do you hide part or all of yourself from others because of the stigma associated with being your authentic self? Perhaps you are stuck in emotional pain because of a distressing experience, twisted belief, or problem-filled story. These negative “stories” can play out in our relationships, work, family life, and self-care. I help motivated adults get on the path to being their best selves. Together we will understand how these “stories” have impacted you. You and I can identify the best ways for you to take control of this negative-filled “story.” Jointly, we can develop a new story where make the observable changes you have set for yourself! I take an eclectic approach to treating clients. Like crayons in a box, I like to use many different colors. My approach integrates mindfulness, evidence-based treatments, geeky storytelling, and most importantly your experiences. You know yourself best, therefore; I encourage you to take from therapy what works and leave the rest. In this virtual therapeutic space, I encourage you to be yourself. Negative judgment and criticism are not allowed here because they are not helpful. If I “catch” you judging yourself, I will gently remind you. Not judging yourself is a skill and if you work with me, you will get plenty of practice. Whether we work together, my hope for you is that you be happy, be healthy, and be at peace.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
***Please complete your paperwork ahead of your session.*** The first session is a chance for me to get to know you a little bit better. I have to gather a lot of information in a short amount of time. I will review your paperwork for accuracy and get clarification if needed. I do my best to provide you time to share with me how I can help you. The intake forms are vital tool to our work. Unfortunately, if you do not complete you paperwork 24 hours ahead of your appointment time, I will not be able to take you on as a client and refer you back to the Grow network. ***Attendance*** This is your appointment time and my hope is you take full advantage of it. However, if you miss 2 or more sessions in a row without advance notice I will refer you back to the Grow network so you can continue with a different provider who has more flexibility. This allows another person who is waiting to be helped.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy to identify the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I borrow from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help process problematic thoughts and behaviors and learn how to regulate emotions. Trauma-informed modalities are utilized to help increase your awareness of how trauma impacts your life Narrative Therapy provides a framework for your life (past, present, and future) using analogies, and storytelling that borrows from science fiction, fantasy, music, spirituality, and culture. I also utilize auxiliary tools such as mobile apps, journaling assignments, diagrams, handouts/worksheets, and books (bibliotherapy) that can help you further your processing between sessions.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I help to demystify therapy and make therapy accessible to clients who may have negative experiences with the United States mental healthcare system or historically have been harmed by those who were supposed to help them. I offer you a balance of accountability and encouragement without judgment. I have been honored to work with wonderful people. My clients come from all different cultures and abilities. The clients who seek me out tend to be people of color, queer folx, and individuals from other marginalized groups. I have helped treat: anxiety, depression, career changes, grief and loss, break-ups, family issues, coming out issues, cultural issues, sexual orientation and gender identity issues, guilt/shame, and trauma.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
Our world is rapidly changing. For some, this is a time great fear, distress, and discomfort. I do not offer any guarantees; however, you and I can work together to help you cope better and adapt to the challenges you face. As an openly Queer Latino man, I have many intersecting identities. Because of this my client's are typically People of Color, Queer Folx, Spanish-speaking individuals/Raza, and individuals from other marginalized groups. There is a good chance I may not be of the same background as you and in this virtual space your culture and identities will be seen and respected.