Last edited 09/29/2022
Heidi Hernandez
Accepting New Clients
Get To Know Me
What does a first session with you look like?
First, we will go over the structure of a typical session, start and end times, costs for therapy, confidentiality agreements, and telehealth protocols. Second, I will ask some questions about your background history, this is called the intake assessment or initial clinical assessment. This will help me get a better understanding of your medical, family, history, symptoms, and situation. Then we will go over any questions you have for me. After we take care of the business-y side, you will have the space to discuss anything you want or what brings you to therapy. I want to make sure we take some time getting to know one another genuinely. I don't expect anyone to dive deeper than they are able or ready to. I'm here for you and I will honor whatever you choose to share in the moment. I believe in taking it one step at a time and one session at a time so we can get to a comfortable and safe place in our relationship where real work and change can happen.
What is your style/approach to therapy?
We’d be a good fit if you like a non-directive counseling style with intentional and respectful confronting and if you don't mind homework between session. I like to take mindful breaks so we can practice healthy ways to manage stress and pay attention to what is happening in your mind, body, and around you in the present moment. Rather zooming in on a problem, I want to partner with you to find solutions that may help get you unstuck. I may use humor from time to time as it will come naturally, and because it feels good to connect and share a laugh with someone. Also, you may notice some silence on my end, I'm taking time to process information and it allows for an opportunity for you to really listen with kindness as your would a best friend. I am committed to helping you uncover or build on your strengths, values, and beliefs so you can make decisions that are in alignment with what's important to you. I want to help you look at a difficult situation in a more adaptive way with curiosity, honesty, and compassion.
How do you determine therapy goals with clients? What does that process look like?
In my sessions, I will allow you the freedom to steer the direction and I help set the course. We decide together goals in which you would like to reach. There are no guarantees in therapy as in any real relationship. It is common in therapy to feel like things are getting worse before they get better. I will do my very best to stay active and engaged with you to ensure that you stay on course with some gentle reminders and celebration of your accomplishments big or small. I like to think that every effort on your part counts towards progress. Everyone feels stuck sometimes or get off-track, it is my job to support you to get back on with more confidence, clarity, and motivation.
Specialties
Specializes in
DepressionAnxietyFamily issuesLGBTQIA related issuesTrauma
General Expertise
Work StressRelationship IssuesLoss/GriefSelf-EsteemRace & Cultural IdentityAbuse/Survivors of abuseAdolescent mental healthAnger managementCollege & graduate student issuesCommunication issuesSleep & insomnia issuesLife transitionsParenting issuesPost-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)Self HarmSexual Harassment & AssaultStep-family/Blended Family IssuesStressSuicidal ideationBehavioral Issues
Treatment Approaches
Strength Based TherapyMindfulness PracticesCulturally Sensitive TherapyFamily Systems TherapyPerson-Centered TherapyGestalt TherapyHumanistic TherapyNarrative TherapyTrauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Motivational InterviewingSolution-Focused Brief TherapyMarriage and Family Therapy
Clientele
Types of Therapy
Individual Therapy
Serves Ages
Young Adults (18-24)Adults (25-65)Adolescents (13-17)
Languages
English
Professional Background
LicensureCalifornia, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT125378
Training/CertificationsRacial Trauma: Healing the Healers by Dr. Joy DeGruyWorking With Multi-Stressed Families by Dr. Pamela Parkinson
Education
M.A. Counseling, School Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, California State University, East Bay
Work HistoryHi my name is Heidi Hernandez, I am a second generation Filipino American and a first generation college graduate. As a child of immigrant parents, I struggled with managing the gender roles, and expectations of both Filipino and American cultures, while navigating what it means to have intersecting LGBTQ identities. My experiences has driven me to pursue a career in mental health to represent marginalized communities and help emerging adults cope with life transitions, family conflict, and generational/cultural issues. I am passionate in helping young adults live authentically, with more self-compassion, self-esteem, and motivation to thrive. I have been practicing for over 10 years in community mental health agencies and K-12 schools across the Bay Area. I provided individual, family, and group therapy to children, adolescents and adults.
Are you experiencing a recent life transition that is causing you stress, anxiety, or depression? (e.g. moving, college, job change/loss, breakups, family changes, coming out) I will partner with you to help you learn healthier ways to cope. I will support you in taking better care of yourself and moving with more motivation, energy, and purpose. Are you having conflicts with family over generational or cultural differences in values and expectations? I can help you learn ways to set healthy boundaries, strengthen your support systems, and learn ways to have deeper and more honest conversations effectively and safely. Are you exploring your gender identity or sexual identity? I would be honored to share a safe space with you and help you work through your thoughts and emotions, at whatever pace you're comfortable.
If you can relate to any of these situations, please don't hesitate to contact me. Therapy can be scary, no matter if it is your first time, second or third time. Just because you're getting older doesn't mean you should have life figured out. I'd be happy to work together with you as your supporter, ally, and coach. We will learn, grow, and celebrate every small and big step forward toward living a more authentic, meaningful, and healthy life.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s not uncommon to have questions before starting therapy.
Heidi Hernandez, LMFT, has answered a few of the questions they receive most often from new clients.
Is Heidi Hernandez accepting new clients?
Yes, Heidi Hernandez is accepting new clients.
Does Heidi Hernandez accept insurance?
No, Heidi Hernandez does not accept insurance.
What types of therapy does Heidi Hernandez offer?
Heidi Hernandez offers therapy for individuals.
Does Heidi Hernandez offer in-person appointments?
No, but people in California can book Heidi Hernandez for virtual appointments (teletherapy).
Does Heidi Hernandez offer online therapy?
Yes, Heidi Hernandez offers online therapy to people in California.
How quickly can I see Heidi Hernandez?
Heidi Hernandez typically can speak with new clients within 48 hours. You can see their current general office hours and request an appointment on their profile page.
What languages does Heidi Hernandez speak?
Heidi Hernandez conducts therapy sessions in English.
Can I book an appointment with Heidi Hernandez online?
Yes, you can easily book an appointment with Heidi Hernandez online using ChoosingTherapy.com’s directory.
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