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.

• Texas, Licensed Professional Counselor, 67006

My work in the helping profession (psychotherapist) began in a clinical setting. I was able to garner a vast amount of knowledge to the level of expert in various modalities of treatment, including the latest conventional changes for treatment, including the bio-psychopharmacological treatments in dealing with comorbidity. But most, if not all, proper psychotherapists would, or should, emphasize to every client that there is no such thing as "the magic pill" and most do not require medications to heal or create change in their lifelong journey. Also, I have a high standard for clients' rights, advocating for mental health as a client advocate. I hold a high standard for myself which in turn helps all my clients find their innate strengths and tools to thrive in life. I help individuals dealing with depression, grief, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship issues, PTSD (trauma), as well as those dealing with adjustment disorder, chronic health issues and behavioral issues including ADHD; which includes virtually all slices of society such as seniors, couples, survivors of abuse, LGBTQIA2S+, gender dysphoria, as well as those dealing with comorbid conditions such as drug addiction or health issues - many whose 'obstacles' would have prevented any person from reaching their life-long goal(s). Together, we will identify what's not working at the moment. We will identify solutions you innately use and begin with simple goals, which will NOT require you to change your entire life because change comes from inspiration, not an ordeal. You will become partial to the positive mindset and peace of mind, with a sense of well-being and empowerment to feel once again productive, and more importantly, satisfied in your everyday life.