Practice Philosophy

I view therapy as a transformative journey, guiding you towards an authentic and fulfilling life by offering psychological treatment for behavioral and emotional issues. My approach is rooted in the theoretical orientations of CBT, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and others, tailored to the diagnostic criteria. Working with individuals and couples, I strive to enhance their functioning and increase well-being. My practice, grounded in CBT, is finely tuned to your specific needs and aspirations within a secure and collaborative environment.

Together, we will embark on a path of self-care, placing a focus on reclaiming your power. Drawing from personal experiences, I understand that challenges can fortify one's strength, and I am here to support you whether you discover it within yourself or prove it anew. Acknowledging life's unpredictability, I encourage finding moments to relax, having faith that things will unfold, and allowing life to happen naturally.

In the midst of the darkest times, we will work together to illuminate the path to happiness, recognizing that emotional pain holds truth and growth, but only when brought into the open. I am a firm believer in nurturing self-compassion, empowering you to cultivate joy, confidence, and meaningful connections. My ultimate aim is to instill a resilience mindset, assisting you in overcoming challenges and forging a present and future aligned with your values.

Therapeutic Approach & Specialties

Individual Therapy

In our individual sessions, I provide compassionate support for personal growth and healing. Drawing from various therapeutic orientations, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Therapy, I address issues such as depression, anxiety, and traumatic events. Clients aged 12 and above can expect a safe environment where we collaboratively navigate the challenges of different life stages. Grounded techniques, relaxation, and diaphragmatic interventions are incorporated to effectively manage anxiety. If you're dealing with loss, I'll guide you through the five stages of grief according to the Kubler Ross model, offering understanding and support.

Couples Therapy

In couples therapy, I guide partners in deepening their bond by exploring perspectives, emotions, and needs shaped by unique upbringings and life experiences. Expect a safe and non-judgmental space where we'll work together to improve communication and identify resolutions that satisfy both partners.

Family Therapy

In family therapy, I collaborate with families to enhance overall functioning and well-being. I particularly focus on adolescents aged 12 and above, helping them develop coping skills, social skills, and healthy communication.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

I incorporate Mindfulness-Based Therapy to empower you in cultivating self-awareness and managing distress factors. Through grounded techniques and relaxation interventions, we'll create a wellness plan that fosters healthy self-care patterns.

Loss and Grief Counseling

Specializing in grief and loss, I'll support you in addressing the five stages of adjustment according to the Kubler Ross model. With a compassionate and understanding approach, we'll process grief at your own pace, fostering acceptance and adaptation to a new way of life.

Minors Therapy (12+)

My expertise lies in working with adolescents aged 12+ and above, with a primary focus on developing essential coping skills, fostering social competence, and promoting assertive communication. Collaborating closely with guardians, I provide advocacy and support to achieve emotional and behavioral goals within the school system.

My experience includes working with Individual Education Plans (IEP) and 504 plans. I offer guidance to parents, exploring whether their child could benefit from accommodations at school due to behavioral or emotional issues. In cases where a student already has an existing IEP and mental health therapist at school, I ensure a collaborative approach to avoid conflicts and enhance the overall support network.

My involvement with the school department equips me with valuable insights to navigate and advocate for parents who may not be aware of resources available through the Exceptional Student Education (ESE) department. I assess whether a student qualifies for an IEP based on their behavioral and emotional needs, providing orientation to parents/guardians about due processes and available resources. This collaborative effort aims to create a supportive and growth-oriented environment for adolescents.

Trauma Informed Therapy

As a trauma specialist, I deeply understand the profound impact trauma can have on individuals. I employ a combination of Mindfulness-Based Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to empower clients in navigating through their traumas, regaining control, and discovering healing.

Mindfulness practices enhance self-awareness, allowing clients to cultivate a non-judgmental awareness of their thoughts and feelings. This mindfulness component aids in developing emotional regulation and coping strategies. Additionally, CBT techniques help identify and challenge negative thought patterns, fostering a shift toward more adaptive beliefs and behaviors. My therapeutic trauma informed approach is tailored to each individual's unique needs and experiences, providing a safe and collaborative space to explore and address trauma responses. Together, we'll embark on a journey toward healing, resilience, and a renewed sense of self, integrating mindfulness and CBT techniques to promote positive change.

Background 

Originally hailing from Puerto Rico and later settling in Florida, I earned my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Carlos Albizu University in San Juan, Puerto Rico. My professional journey includes completing an internship in Puerto Rico, followed by a post-doctoral position at BayCare Hospital in Winter Haven, Florida. With over 15 years of experience, I have worked in diverse mental health settings, including inpatient units, outpatient facilities, and schools across two counties in Florida and in Puerto Rico.

I am bilingual, fluent in both Spanish and English, and an active member of the American Psychologist Association and the Puerto Rico Psychological Association. In 2011, I made the transition to Florida. Throughout my career, I have maintained a high standard and commitment to each client, aiming to facilitate their journey towards building the best version of themselves.

Outside of my role as a therapist, I find joy in spending quality time with my family. When the opportunity arises, I travel to Puerto Rico to continue creating cherished memories with extended family and friends. I am particularly passionate about serving as an advocate and take great pleasure in addressing a wide range of clinical concerns in my practice.