Araceli Hirtle

LMFT

The first session is typically a good way for us to get to know one another. We will cover important documents, set up our next appointment if we both feel comfortable with moving forward. During the first appointment we will also go over expectations for treatment; we will create goals and review what my job as a therapist is vs your "job" as a client. The first sessions always feel like a lot because they're nerve wracking if you have never done therapy before, but don't forget, it's for you!

The most exciting thing about our profession is that we are always growing and adapting. Mental health is different amongst genders, cultures, languages and countries of origin. There are things we have learned that work and other things we know we could do better with (i.e. increasing access to services for everyone). I love that there are always knew things to learn and new ways to help. I am most excited about telehealth because it makes accessing therapy so much easier.

I honestly became a therapist because I knew my own family had crappy communication skills and was able to recognize this as a common thread in most families. I wanted to help families better understand each other, relate to one another and enjoy one another. I started with a BA in psychology and loved learning why people function the way they do. Then in grad school I learned how to change those patterns. In my practice I have learned how to grieve traumatic events, while choosing healthier to interact with others while being healthy and happy with our selves.