Tanya Martinez-Cardenas LPC

I like to be able to measure progression with clients, when I can. I think creating goals at the beginning of therapy allows clients and therapists to have direction. Values are also important to look at. People are usually unhappy when their values aren't aligned with their lifestyle. If clients are presenting with severe trauma, I take a completely different approach. A client and I would look at how past events continue to affect the person today, processing that pain, and learning coping mechanisms that may involve forgiveness of self and others to finally have freedom. Every client is different and presents with different needs. My job is to find what is underneath what a person is saying and feeling, and put words to what remains hidden from them and keeps them from not being able to heal. My job is like putting pieces of a puzzle together. It's immensely fascinating and exciting. Ultimately, the client does the real work. I act as a guide with scientific curiosity, asking questions from every angle imaginable, until it becomes clear to the client what is causing the problems, and what is standing in their way. The greatest joy I get from being a therapist, is seeing a person transform and heal before my eyes. I think therapy is the greatest gift anyone can give themselves. It is what we would call the ultimate act of self-love. We know from research and life experience in general, we can't give away healthy love until we first feel it for ourselves. I'm honored to join you on your journey of healing and self-discovery.

CBT, DBT, ACT Therapy, Mindfulness, SBT, Transpersonal Psychology, and more.

• Texas, Licensed Professional Counselor, 87285