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Where are you from?
I live in New York now, but I was born and raised in New Jersey. My ethnic identity is a big part of who I am; my father is Dominican, and my mother is Ecuadorian. Being the child of immigrants has shaped my perspective and values in so many meaningful ways.
How has your heritage/culture influenced your career journey as a therapist and your services?
My heritage and culture have deeply shaped my journey as a therapist and the services I provide. Growing up in a Hispanic household, I often heard messages that showing emotion was a sign of weakness. Over time, and through my graduate studies, I came to understand that this perspective stemmed from surviving. Many Latinx folks aren’t afforded the opportunity to access or express their emotions because the focus has to be on survival.
This understanding drives my mission as a therapist: to help my clients reconnect with the parts of themselves they may have neglected. By creating a space where they feel truly listened to, cared for, and supported, I guide them toward exploring and integrating these parts, fostering a path toward healing and a more whole, authentic self. My heritage instills in me a deep sense of compassion and commitment to honoring my clients’ unique stories, helping them navigate their own journeys with care and respect.
Can you share more about the services you offer, and how individuals can go about recognizing which services would work best for them & their needs?
In my practice, I offer trauma-informed care that focuses on helping individuals navigate their emotional journeys with compassion and understanding. My services include individual therapy tailored to address anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as stress management techniques that empower clients to navigate life’s challenges. I also provide psychoeducation, helping clients understand how their emotions, experiences, and behaviors are interconnected, so they feel equipped to make meaningful changes.
To recognize which services would work best for their needs, I encourage individuals to reflect on what feels most pressing in their lives. Are they struggling to manage overwhelming emotions or feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve them? Are they seeking a safe space to explore their identity or past experiences? During an initial consultation, we discuss these questions together, exploring their goals and concerns. This collaborative process ensures they feel heard and supported in choosing the approach that aligns with their needs and priorities. My ultimate goal is to meet clients where they are and help them move toward healing and growth in a way that feels empowering and effective.
Why do you think it’s important to stay connected to your community, and what are ways that you do so through your practice?
Staying connected to my community is vital because it grounds me in my values, keeps me attuned to the needs of those I serve, and reminds me of the collective resilience and strength we share. I’ve seen firsthand the importance of community in providing support, understanding, and a sense of belonging, particularly in the face of adversity. This connection informs my work and helps me provide culturally responsive care.
Through my practice, I stay connected by offering trauma and culturally informed services that acknowledge and honor the diverse experiences of individuals in my community. I also prioritize accessibility, creating a welcoming space for those who might otherwise feel underserved. These efforts allow me to not only give back but also remain deeply engaged with the people and stories that inspire and guide my work as a therapist.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about your business/industry?
One thing I wish more people knew about the therapy field is that seeking support isn’t just for moments of crisis, it’s a proactive step toward self-growth and emotional well-being. Therapy isn’t about having something “wrong” with you; it’s about creating space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a way that fosters understanding and healing.
Lastly, I’d love for people to see therapy as a form of self-investment. Just as we care for our physical health, tending to our mental and emotional health is essential for leading a balanced and fulfilling life. The courage it takes to engage in this work is something to be celebrated, not stigmatized.
What qualities should people look for in a therapist in order to find someone who they feel comfortable around? How can having a therapist of a similar background impact your overall experience?
When searching for a therapist, people should look for qualities that foster trust, safety, and understanding. Comfort is key—clients should feel that their therapist is genuinely invested in their well-being and offers a space where they can be their authentic selves.
Having a therapist of a similar background can enhance the therapeutic experience by creating an immediate sense of cultural familiarity and understanding. Shared experiences or cultural references can help clients feel seen and validated without needing to explain certain nuances of their identity.
However, while a shared background can be beneficial, it’s not always necessary. What matters most is finding a therapist who is culturally competent, open to learning, and committed to understanding the individual’s perspective. Ultimately, the right therapist is someone who makes you feel heard, respected, and supported, regardless of their similarities or differences.
What would you tell someone that is interested in your services, but is hesitant to reach out?
I would first want them to know that their feelings are valid, taking the first step toward seeking support can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s unfamiliar territory. I would reassure them that therapy is a collaborative, judgment-free space where they have control over the pace and direction of our work together.
I’d also encourage them to think of reaching out as an act of self-care and courage. It’s not about having everything figured out before starting but about creating a space to explore and grow. During an initial consultation, I take the time to listen to their concerns, answer any questions, and help them feel comfortable without any pressure to commit. My role is to provide support, not to push or rush the process.
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