Angelica SandovalLMHC

As a college student the only courses that truly interested me were psychology classes. I was intrigued with how the mind works, the choices people make and how these decisions are influenced by culture, environment and heredity. These courses helped me to recognize my deep interest in mental health counseling. I was inspired to continue on this path as I recognized the need for counselors in my community where counseling was often considered taboo. Every day that I work with clients, it reaffirms my choice. I absolutely love providing counseling because it allows me to help others effect positive changes in their lives.

Therapy can be both scary and liberating. Client’s find themselves discussing some of the deepest, troubling aspects of their lives. I want my client’s to know that whatever you need to say will not be met with judgment or criticism and making changes is possible. We are capable of making positive changes and moving forward from past hurts, bad choices and mistakes. Therapy can truly be a turning point that gives individuals the opportunity to create the life they want.

As part of the counseling process, it is really important to me that clients are 100% involved in creating goals for therapy. After meeting with a client for their initial intake session, I always ask, “What do you hope to get out of counseling?” This question is the first step to determining therapy goals. It helps me and the client begin the discussion about changes they would like to make during the therapy process to get to a happier, more fulfilling life. Sometimes individuals have a difficult time answering this question. My role is to help them figure this out through open, supportive counseling. I work with each person to prioritize their therapy goals and develop a plan to accomplish these goals.

• Florida, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MH15690

Over the last 18 years, I have provided counseling to diverse clients facing many different challenges.  My experience includes counseling individuals and heterosexual/same sex couples facing anxiety, panic, depression, relationship issues and communication challenges.  Most recently, I completed training through Post-Partum International.  This education has helped me provide more comprehensive counseling to mothers and fathers experiencing depression due to fertility issues, miscarriage and childbirth.  I have also had the pleasure of providing career counseling to address issues related to work stress, career transition and reentering the workforce.