Who I am as a Therapist
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I believe that YOU (the client), are the expert of YOUR own story and I would like for YOU take me on the journey that it is YOUR life!
Building a solid relationship with your therapist is a key component of the therapeutic process. I see our therapeutic relationship as a collaborative effort where we work together to find solutions. I learn from you and go at your pace. I am a supporter, an advocate, and a cheerleader in helping you reach your goals. I practice evidenced-based therapeutic to empower you to maximize your potential and utilize the strengths that you already possess. However, the type of therapy I utilize depends on YOU! I believe that the therapeutic approach should be a good fit for the client, not the other way around. We design the treatment plan together, as a team, and everyone has a say. Also, I am a fan of utilizing humor, play and art (not just with children). |
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My Story
I am a proud first generation Latina; I am bicultural and bilingual. Before becoming a therapist, I worked with youth in different settings; as classroom helper, private tutor, teacher assistant and camp counselor. These experiences taught me valuable lessons on the different struggles that children and adolescents face, and with this, my passion for psychology was born and my journey began. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Development from San Diego State University. I then attended Alliant International University and obtained my Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy.
My clinical experience began in Hospice Care, providing psychotherapy to terminal patients and their families, and as a grief counselor. I then moved on to the non-profit sector for many years and worked with children, adolescents and their families, focusing on behavioral challenges at home and school. One of the most important lessons I have learned in working with kids and teens is that the majority of the behaviors make sense, when you look at the context in which they occur, even the most bizarre! And, until proven otherwise, I believe parents want to have a good relationship with their kids and help them be successful at whatever they do. Therefore, parents always have a spot on my couch!
My clinical experience began in Hospice Care, providing psychotherapy to terminal patients and their families, and as a grief counselor. I then moved on to the non-profit sector for many years and worked with children, adolescents and their families, focusing on behavioral challenges at home and school. One of the most important lessons I have learned in working with kids and teens is that the majority of the behaviors make sense, when you look at the context in which they occur, even the most bizarre! And, until proven otherwise, I believe parents want to have a good relationship with their kids and help them be successful at whatever they do. Therefore, parents always have a spot on my couch!
My Areas of Focus:
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