Priscilla DominguezLMFT

There's still a HUGE stigma surrounding mental health. That negativity has an influence on people deciding on seeking therapeutic services. “Therapy is for crazy people, and I’m not crazy.” But that’s the thing – therapy isn’t for “crazy people.” Society has made going to therapy or a struggle with mental health, into some twisted, scary movie plot. Movies portray psychiatric wards or rehab facilities, as places where patients secretly harm themselves, engage in risky behaviors, end up strapped to their bed or in a padded room. That’s just fiction, entertainment – it’s not reality. Therapy helps people overcome the challenges that prevent them from becoming the person they want to be. Therapy is a team approach. Together we come up with a plan, some goals you would like to accomplish. Maybe you want to feel inspired or improve the quality of your life. People seek therapy for many reasons, most commonly because certain things are hard to face alone. You sought help for a reason. We’re in this together, and I’m confident you can become a better version of yourself. The next step is in your hands!

The therapeutic relationship is unique. It’s most likely one of the healthiest relationships you’ve ever had OR will ever have. I encourage you to be open and honest, without the fear of hurting someone’s feelings or being the focus of retaliating remarks. Communication is a great tool, OR your biggest fear and barrier. That’s what we do in session, we communicate, we TALK. Believe it or not, you start to look forward to our conversations. You start to use what you learned in session, in your everyday life. I’ll be your companion in therapy. Therapy with me is like traveling in an unknown country, it can feel overwhelming, exciting, scary, anxiety provoking, but you’re not alone. I’m with you to guide you. You may not have been there before, but I have. I’m going to see you through. I’ll make sure you get to where you’re going. All I ask is you stay with me, learn to trust I know the way. Like most journeys, if you leave the guide, you can get lost. Have you ever been lost? It’s not a good feeling. I’ll give you guidance. You’ll have practice tools as you think about your next step. The answers will start to be clearer, and you’ll know how to weigh the options and see potential outcomes. If you’re willing to put in the work on investing in yourself, I’m also willing to work just as hard with you.

Together we work on your identified problems or challenges. I gather all that information during the first scheduled appointment. I develop what is called a “Treatment Plan,” and together we discuss your goals for therapy. What you would like to work on. Together we work toward these goals. The treatment plan goals you make initially aren’t set in stone. Much like you, they’re unique, and can change as you accomplish or change your goals.

• California, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, 104479

Are you stuck in a vicious cycle of little to no motivation, low self-esteem, and unfulfilled goals? Has that cycle led to increased anxiety and depression? Whether you find yourself at this point due to traumatic childhood experiences or another reason, one thing’s very clear: pushing through doesn’t work anymore. You can’t control your emotions. The crying spells and angry outbursts are affecting your work and personal life. What do you do? You need to get to the cause of the pain and then work through it. There are many ways to overcome your challenges, but therapy is usually the quickest, most effective, and safest way to do it. I use a powerful combination of coping skills, mindfulness, behavior modification and trauma work. Together we identify and release those painful images and emotions that have held you back for far too long. Time can definitely heal, but how much you heal depends on you and your efforts. You’ll be able to use the things you learn in therapy for the rest of your life. Much like working with a personal trainer to get in shape, I help you improve your overall mental fitness. Learn to love and accept yourself. Be a better spouse, partner, or parent. Live a more fulfilled life! And THRIVE instead of just exist. You deserve it! Call me for a free phone consultation, and discover your potential for happiness!