Approach
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Solution-focused, Strengths-based
Therapy Style
I am a first-generation Mexican-American with an intuitive calling to work with women of color who are going through life transitions. I use an eclectic approach with each client and acknowledge that everyone's life story is unique with different needs. My focus is on building healing therapeutic relationships that create a safe space for self-expression, inside and outside the therapy room. I will walk beside you with cultural humility while you lead the discovery—you are the expert of your life.
Education
MA - Counseling, Loyola Marymount University
License Number and State
Pronouns
she/her
Why did you become a mental health professional?
To help people of color find their worth and strengths. To help heal generational scarcity mindsets. Women are enough, women of color are enough, and people of color are enough.
What are your interests outside of work?
Yoga, plant-based cooking, and spending time with my friends, family, and cat. I love pet-sitting while friends and family are away. Listening to finance and feminist podcasts.
What is one thing you do daily that supports your well-being?
I try my best to do light yoga and meditation before work each day, but when that doesn't happen, what I never miss is breakfast. Breakfast sets me up for a positive day. Without it, I would crash and burn before getting started. I know how connected my emotional well-being is to nutrition so I make it a point to always have breakfast.
What book have you read more than once?
As an adult, I've never read a book more than once. But, I do reference The Four Agreements quite often. Although I don't practice traditional religion, the four agreements: be impeccable with your word, don't take anything personally, don't make assumptions, and always do your best, deeply resonate with my life values and also how I show up as a therapist.
Favorite organization/non-profit?
Best Friends animal shelter. I had a great volunteer experience here and think about going back a lot. Maybe this year will be my return to volunteering here again.
How do you recharge?
By singing in the shower, drinking chamomile and lavender teas, and listening to relaxing sounds, and cozy smells. Cuddling with my cat Niko.
Do you have any pets?
I have a Scottish straight cat named Niko. He is my alarm clock, he wakes me up at 6:45 am every morning. Some mornings he's very loud and hungry and others he's sweet and mellow. One morning I woke up and it was too quiet, when I got up I noticed that he had rummaged through a kitchen cabinet and laughed thinking to myself "If I didn't know better I would have thought someone broke in last night". He's the best!
