Monica Marie Rivera-Pina

LPC

My journey began as a young child whose home life was a host of struggles/abuse which later served as an insight into the struggles others experience. Such experiences can hamper anyone's ability to move forward or form healthy relationships. In my case, I was fortunate, in my young adulthood, to meet a well-regarded psychotherapist who aided me in learning life-long cognitive tools for recovery, (someone I now emulate to pay it forward, helping others).

In our first session, we will spend time, mainly, in getting to know each other. I want you to feel our sessions are non-judgmental, and genuine, and above all, what you say in session remains confidential. There will be a few personal questions, but only what helps me, to help you. Those questions are part of the "intake session", solely to understand your worldview/family dynamic. Every session is built from empathy while each question I ask will always stem from respect for your identity and culture. My goal is to build a therapeutic, well-founded, professional, genuine and non-biased relationship with you so I can build a therapeutic plan to help you. Some of my questions include your past, such as what your childhood was like, your job history, and your current friends/social group or romantic relationships, including those of your current family. I need a vivid picture of your worldview so I can do my utmost to help you reach your goals in therapy. My biggest strength in working with clients is that I make it a point to focus all my energy on every session with every client. I research the latest therapeutic tools to prepare for every session to present the best approach. For example, many therapists tend to stick to one modality and will never waiver from said modality, despite the client's needs or session stagnation - NOT ME. Every human being is unique, diverse and static to the events impacting them. We, as clinicians, must treat every client genuinely, honestly, and accordingly. Honesty is paramount in a therapeutic relationship with the client. That being said, a therapist doesn't know everything and should admit when unable to help the client. I pledge to be honest with you and help you reach your therapeutic goals.