I’m a Nicaraguan American immigrant, of mixed documented family, bilingual and first gen college graduate. As a bilingual Latina counselor who believes in the power of affinity-based healing. As a bilingual therapist, you will be welcome to trans language knowing that your therapist will understand you as you flow from Spanish to English.
I have a B.A. degree in Psychology from San Francisco State University and a Master's degree in Counseling Education from San Jose State University. I was born in Managua, Nicaragua, and at the age of two, I moved to California with my parents and siblings. I was raised in the Bay Area and now reside in the Washington DC Metropolitan Area.
I’m a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) licensed to practice in Washington DC and Maryland and an International Coaching Federation (ICF) certified Life Coach. In my free time I love to travel, go on nature walks/hikes, ride my peloton bike, watch movies, read or listen to podcasts and of course, going out to brunch.
With 15+ years of experience working in various counseling settings from schools to crisis residential programs, our sessions will empower you to heal and flourish.
I embrace evidence-based practices while honoring the individuality and collaboration between client and counselor.
I practice an integrative approach to therapy, grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques, which allows our sessions to be tailored to your unique needs.
The name Vivid Vida Counseling stems from wanting my clients to live a full, vibrant life despite the challenges they may face. And of course, I wanted a Spanglish name to reflect my personal values of affinity-based healing and cater to the Latino/x community.
I’m passionate about helping others overcome barriers that hold them back from showing up as their true authentic selves and achieving their goals. I’m committed to di-stigmatizing seeking help when it comes to mental health, especially within the Latino/x community.
THE WAY I SEE IT...
As we go to the doctor's office or work with a trainer to upkeep our physical health, we also need to regularly declutter our minds and invest in our mental health. Growing up in a Latino/x household and community, you only went to see a ‘Psicologa” if something was wrong. But what I’ve come to learn personally and professionally, is that you don’t have to wait for something to be “wrong” to seek mental health services.
So bring your Cafecito (or tea) to our sessions, and relax; you’ll be in great hands.
Having a professional to talk to about everyday stressors, barriers, and life-changing events will not only help you heal but will also help you become the best version of yourself.
