About
Some frequent ideas and conceptions about therapy...
- Let’s admit it, Latinx communities have a stigma around mental health; most Latinx communities struggle to recognize the importance of addressing mental health needs. Most of us were raised with the idea that “la ropa sucia se lava en casa” or “one shouldn't wash one's dirty linen in public.” So, I commend you for being here and contemplating the possibility of investing in your wellbeing.
- Latinxs, particularly Latinx women, struggle with impostor syndrome and they are constantly minimizing their achievements and questioning their accomplishments. In our sessions, we can explore ways to strengthen your confidence while identifying societal structures and stereotypes that enhance these inquiries.
- Depression and anxiety are underrated and often people think you choose to feel this particular way. How many times have you heard others say: ”just don’t be sad, be happy”. Depression and anxiety are conditions that can significantly impair your functioning. In therapy, you can learn tangible strategies to improve your mood and decrease your anxiety while exploring what’s underneath these conditions.
- Sometimes we don't realize that trauma keeps us stuck in the past. We feel unable to move on, enjoy the present, and connect with the people we love. Therapy can help us process and understand these experiences, allowing us to enjoy life again.
- As Latinxs, we are huge about family and community, but it can be hard to manage our personal lives when boundaries and expectations are not established properly. Learn how to set up boundaries with kindness while honoring your individual self.
- Social disparities, racism, and discrimination have a great impact on our mental health. Therapy is a safe space to have this conversation and explore ways to heal individually and collectively.
Background
I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá, Colombia and a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. Throughout my career, I have held multiple positions in inpatient and outpatient mental health organizations including supervisory positions.
My therapeutic approach is client-centered, culturally-humble, and trauma-informed. I have solid training in trauma-focused therapy including Trauma-focused behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Phase-based trauma treatment, and cognitive processing therapy (CPT).
Additionally, I incorporate elements of social justice, racial trauma healing, mindfulness, and other mind-body-soul techniques. I also like to explore the power and influence of ancestral healing and intergenerational healing practices. I recognize the value of ancestral knowledge as part of the healing journey of communities of color.
Sessions are conducted in English and/or Spanish. I acknowledge the unique needs of bilingual individuals and the advantages of communicating our memories, thoughts, and emotions in the language these were originally stored or experienced.
I am an LGBTQ+ ally.
Credentials and certifications
- Licensed Bilingual Professional Counselor (LPC)
- Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)
- STRONG STAR Network Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) Provider
