My Approach to Helping
We are usually afraid of our feelings. We try to avoid them, mask them, hide them. We live in a world that tells us to be happy all the time. We try, but we can, the feelings catch up with us. So we feel even worse. We feel lost, afraid, and guilty for feeling our feelings. I will help you get in touch with your innertrue self, accepting yourself for who you are, moving away from shame, guilt and fear, and starting the process of change in an organic manner.
In my practice, I provide a safe environment where you can start exploring your feelings, accept them, and work through them. It is scary and uncomfortable to face our emotions sometimes, and that is why I am right there with you, through the process, walking by your side.
More Info About My Practice
I was born and raised in Brazil, but I spent most of my adult life in California. Right after High School, I pursued a BA in Tourism and an MBA in Business. I worked with business but I could never find myself or feel fulfilled.
I have always been passionate about helping others, and even before I started studying Psychology, I was always involved in online support groups in an attempt to make myself available for those in need of help. When I moved to the United States, I decided to follow my heart and I enrolled in school again. I obtained my BA in Psychology from Marymount California University and my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University.
Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With
I dedicated most of my academic years to studying Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, and the correlation between them. During my training in Substance Abuse treatment, I learned how to appreciate the person behind the addiction, and help them work through the underlying issues of their unhealthy coping behaviors. I use the same approach to any client I am helping: it does not matter what is happening at the moment, there is a person to be honored, respected, and validated.
I'm a Certified Trauma Professional and a Certified Personality Disorders Treatment Provider
