Michelle Guevara

As a daughter of immigrants and Latinx woman, decreasing the stigma of mental health is very important to me. Taking the first step is always the hardest; it takes strength and a lot of vulnerability that, as humans in an individualistic society, we are not used to being confronted with. I collaborate with clients to create a special space where you will be heard, understood, and respected. I understand that healing is not linear and there will be a lot of ups and downs. I am very honest in the process of therapy and will allow you a space just for you; your own “dance floor.” As your therapist, I can help you cope with the emotional and physical symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, conflicts, and change to “life stressors” or just “stress”. I will work with you to develop additional resources to add to your toolbox. I will work to help you tell your own narrative; you are the expert of your own life. The BIPOC community has often been shut out from conversations of mental health. I can provide you with space of security, and help heal the internalized stigma around mental health often present in BIPOC communities. Helping young people navigate around a wide variety of presenting concerns and providing them with a secure and dependable space to process difficulties, is an important part of my work as a therapist. My ideal client is someone who is open to change and comfortable with being challenged. I will first and foremost utilize an anti-oppressive, non-judgmental and person-centered approach, understanding that affirmation of a client's identity is critical to helping that individual live a more authentic life. Using an eclectic approach, I use a wide variety of modalities including Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Strengths Based, Solution Focused and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I also have experience in the non-profit sector and have gained experience with multiple populations.