Ileana Hernandez
Managing persistent anxiety, panic attacks, or depression can feel like watching a storm roll in that never quite clears. When distraction, self-medication, or simply waiting it out stop working—and the symptoms only grow more intense—it is natural to feel hopeless or stuck. Therapy offers a dedicated space to break that cycle. When working together, we will build a treatment plan tailored specifically to your goals. My practice draws from evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, Meditation, and Guided Imagery. I also bring deep experience navigating the stages of change, the cycles of addiction, and how substance use intersects with mental health. I understand that while everyone's journey looks different, the distress you feel is real. Prioritizing your well-being takes courage, but you don't have to navigate it alone.
First session
"What to expect during our first session: Assessment: Gathering relevant history and information to understand your current situation. Expectations: Discussing how therapy works and addressing any questions you may have. Goals: Clarifying what you hope to achieve and setting a direction for future sessions."
Strengths
My approach to therapy is integrative and client-centered. I draw from a wide range of therapeutic tools—ranging from Humanistic and Psychodynamic approaches to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)—allowing us to tailor our work to what best serves your unique needs, goals, and personal style. Because no single framework fits every person, I use an eclectic approach to therapy. By blending insights from Psychodynamic exploration, Humanistic support, and practical CBT interventions, we can address both immediate symptoms and deeper underlying patterns in a way that feels natural to you."
Ideal clients
My ideal client is someone navigating anxiety or depression that interferes with daily life, who is ready and motivated to make a meaningful change. Therapy with me is an active, collaborative conversation. Together, we will explore the root causes of what you are experiencing while developing practical strategies to manage symptoms. To help build momentum, I often offer actionable practices or reflective exercises between sessions to support your progress and help you reach your goals.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Phase 1: Map the Baseline Identify symptoms and stressors, understand how thoughts, feelings, and actions interact, and use brief questionnaires to establish your starting point. Phase 2: Build the Blueprint Set clear, achievable goals, identify specific triggers that spark negative reactions, and agree on a shared therapy plan. Phase 3: Reshape Your Thinking Track knee-jerk thoughts, spot brain tricks like assuming the worst, check the evidence, and develop realistic, grounded perspectives. Phase 4: Take Practical Action Schedule rewarding tasks, test fears with safe experiments, face triggers step by step, and learn calming physical skills. Phase 5: Secure Long-Term Growth Measure overall progress, document your best tools, and create a proactive plan to maintain momentum independently.
Location
Virtual sessions