I started my journey into psychotherapy back in 2005. Over the years, I have learned a great deal regarding how much our lives are impacted by how we see the world, and what we focus on. I have learned that focusing on the present moment, and enjoying each moment for what it offers can be priceless. I have learned, and now teach others how to live mindfully, not in the past or the future, but in the present moment, as when we leave the present moment is when our suffering begins. I have extensive experience in trauma, and overcoming traumas, as well as approaching the world from a cultural perspective. Based on experience, I have seen that we see the world through the sense of our cultural forefathers, and therefore, sometimes we need to adjust our interpretation of what we see and experience. I have been amazed at the tenacity and strength of the human spirit, and I cannot disregard the presence of an all knowing, encompassing presence of a higher being in our lives. It is for this reason that I encourage patients to look at the world from multiple points of view. Sometimes changing the lens with which we look at the world, can make all the difference in what we see and feel.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session, we will start with introductions, and I would like to learn about how I can help you with the issues you are experiencing. I always teach the most basic of calming exercises during that first session, so that you walk away from the session with something that will help you gain at least a little control of the thoughts and emotions that can sometimes overwhelm a person.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Having worked primarily with trauma for the past 19 years, I believe I have heard it all, and there is very little that you can tell me that will shock me, or upset me. I have been trained in EMDR, and Cognitive Processing Therapy, which are two of the primary techniques utilized to treat persons with trauma. Also, because I have significant experience in a theoretical model that looks at how our upbringing has influenced our present ability to function, I am able to help the patient delve into past experiences that lead to current beliefs and ways of functioning that may be keeping the patient from meeting their goals.
About Dr. Trinidad Zavala
Dr. Trinidad Zavala offers therapy covered by Central California Alliance for Health (Medi-Cal), Gold Coast Health Plan (Medi-Cal), L.A. Care Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Orange County Mental Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Partnership HealthPlan of California (Medi-Cal) and San Francisco Health Plan (Medi-Cal) in California.
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VirtualMy treatment methods
EMDR
I am certified in EMDR, and utilize it to treat patients who have experienced Trauma. I find it highly effective at helping patient overcome thoughts or memories of the trauma.
Cognitive Processing (CPT)
I have utilized cognitive processing therapy for the past couple of years, and found that the structure of the process appeals to patients who feel they need more structure in processing their traumas.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
As a Latina, I understand the significant role that culture may play in a persons mental health, and I understand that Western standards for behavior, and or diagnosis, may be different for persons who express themselves based on other cultural norms.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindful practice plays a significant role in the therapy that I provide, as I believe that we suffer when we focus on the past, or focus on the future. Mindfulnesss allows us to live in the present, and the here and now, and quiet the mind of worries, and or ruminations.
Psychoeducation
Understanding one self, and understanding the functioning of the brain, is important for patients to understand how and why the brain and body are responding the way they are to triggers or reminders of the trauma.