Who I Help

 

As an LGBTQ+ Latina, I bring a unique understanding of the intricate tapestry of cultural diversity, navigating the complexities of existing between two worlds. My personal experiences enhance my ability to provide empathetic and culturally sensitive support, fostering a safe space for clients to explore their own cultural identities and challenges.

I show up FULLY and AUTHENTICALLY and I want you to be able to, too.

 

I love working with folks struggling with concerns surrounding being part of the LGBTQIA+ community, sexuality, self-acceptance, self-esteem, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma and PTSD, interpersonal violence, family conflict, stress management, parenting, and life transitions.

My focus and goal is to help clients build a rich and meaningful life.

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I am very accepting of and open to discussing various relationship types (i.e. CNM, poly, open relationships). Hiding any part of you, or anyone you love, is not something you have to do in my therapy room.

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What Can you Expect?

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You can expect a collaborative and supportive experience in therapy with me. I utilize a strengths-based, integrative approach to counseling and am able to tailor sessions to meet the specific needs of each client. I have been told that I have an innate ability to create comfort and warmth. I can be directive and (gently) confrontational, or more laid-back when needed. I occasionally throw out a F&%$ (or other profanities) because, let's be honest--sometimes it just feels good to get that shit out!

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I show up as my authentic and genuine self, despite the environment I am in.  My intersecting identities have allowed me to hold space for people of all backgrounds. I understand that I will never be fully competent in the lived experience of another, and I approach everyone with cultural humility and genuine curiosity.

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I have found meaning in serving people my entire life. It is a true privilege to hold space for someone, a complete stranger, to trust and share parts of their true selves with me. And I don't take that lightly.

 

Developing a collaborative relationship and empowering others is an honor.

I will never see you as a problem that needs to be solved and will incorporate self-compassion as the foundation for the work we do together. 

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Self-Acceptance

I want to empower you to embrace your entire self . Using a values-based living framework from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, we can help increase your unconditional self-acceptance. Our world views, experiences, and interpersonal relationships impact how we view ourselves, and a collaboration to uncover these factors will lay the foundation for us in therapy with the goal of carving out a path for you to live a meaningful life on your own terms.

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Anxiety, Trauma & PTSD

When we do this work together, it is so important to create a space of safety and trust where you feel like you can truly dive into what is holding you back. I acknowledge the absolute necessity to create autonomy for those who have experienced trauma, and likely had their power and voice taken away. I work with intergenerational, complex, and chronic trauma, as well as those experiencing anxiety that may be unrelated to a traumatic event. My goal is to facilitate a development of empowerment with you by offering compassion and respect for all of your lived experiences.

 

Learning tangible skills to manage internal and external triggers that cause you distress is a goal that can be attained by using an integrative approach to develop psychological flexibility. We will utilize aspects of distress tolerance and emotional regulation from DBT to build on inner strength. We will incorporate trauma work that focuses on building a sustainable quality of life and not just symptom reduction.

 

Substance Abuse

I practice from a harm-reduction, shame-free perspective to help facilitate self-compassion while we focus on the underlying issues that impacted your use of substances. I also use elements of Motivational Interviewing to facilitate change that is aligned with YOUR own goals and values. You can expect absolute respect in sessions, despite your previous choices, however "terrible" and "too much" you feel they may be.  You will not be judged here.

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 When I'm not at Open Space CCW, you may also find me...

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Spending time with my family and cat, riding my Peloton or lifting weights, eating tacos, hanging with friends around a fire pit, getting tattooed, and traveling!

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