Find Your Counselor

With more than twenty years of experience in human services, I've had the honor of supporting people from all walks of life as they navigate the challenges of relationships—both with others and within themselves. My approach focuses on creating a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can feel safe to explore what's weighing on you. Together, we can work on understanding patterns, reconnecting with your strengths, and identifying the steps toward meaningful change, no matter where you are in life. Whether you're dealing with stress, seeking greater self-awareness, or striving for deeper connections, I am here to help. If you're ready to begin this journey or simply curious about what might be possible, I welcome you to reach out and take the first step.

Hi! My name is Clarissa, and I specialize in working with people who feel emotionally burnt out and are struggling to stay afloat. Life can get really overwhelming, and sometimes we need someone who will listen, ask thoughtful questions, and help us untangle everything that's been on our minds. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, past trauma, or simply feeling stuck, we'll work together to understand what you're going through and figure out what to do next.

I think that therapy works best when it's a partnership. Instead of me telling you what your life should look like, we will explore what feels right for you and go at your pace. I work with adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds and offer therapy in both English and Spanish. Whether this is your first experience with therapy or you've been in counseling before, you're welcome here. I hope to hear and see you for who you are. 

Si prefiere hablar en español, será un gusto acompañarle en este proceso.

I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with ten years of experience in psychiatry and medication management. I've had the privilege of helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds overcome a variety of mental health challenges, from depression and anxiety to more complex conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Throughout my career, I've become increasingly passionate about the importance of accessible mental health care. I firmly believe that everyone should have access to high-quality mental health services, regardless of their age, socioeconomic status, or lifestyle. Unfortunately, many barriers to care still prevent people from getting the help they need, such as long wait times, limited insurance coverage, and stigmatization. That's why I've made it my mission to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that is accessible and inclusive to all. Whether you're struggling with a mental health issue for the first time or have been living with a condition for years, I'm here to help. My approach is collaborative and tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals, and I always strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where my clients can feel heard and supported. Thank you for taking the time to read about me. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please don't hesitate to reach out!

My dedication to helping others was shaped by formative life experiences and strengthened through years of personal growth and professional development. Serving as a medic in the military was a pivotal experience that deepened my commitment to walking alongside people during moments of crisis, uncertainty, and vulnerability. Since then, I have supported individuals through a variety of roles, gaining a deeper appreciation for the resilience people demonstrate while navigating life’s most difficult challenges.

Throughout my career, I have worked with individuals across the lifespan experiencing trauma, grief, mental health concerns, major life transitions, involvement with the legal system, and other significant stressors. These experiences have expanded my understanding of the many ways people adapt, heal, and create meaningful change.

My education and clinical training have strengthened my therapeutic skills while continuing to shape my empathy, curiosity, and respect for each person’s unique story. I am especially drawn to an Adlerian approach, which emphasizes holistic care, social connection, personal strengths, and the belief that every individual has the capacity for growth and fulfillment. I integrate evidence-based practices within this framework to help clients develop insight, build resilience, and move toward meaningful change.

In therapy, I strive to create a supportive and authentic space where individuals can explore vulnerability, develop self-awareness, and approach themselves with compassion rather than judgment. I believe that courage and connection are essential parts of healing, and that when people recognize their strengths and feel understood, they can move toward greater well-being and a more fulfilling life.

One of the strongest predictors of success in therapy is the connection you share with your therapist, so finding the best fit is an important first step! I believe in the "therapeutic relationship," developing a relationship of trust and respect. We will work together to find the approach that best fits you—your needs, goals, and unique situation.

My focus is to provide a safe place to be heard, understood, and supported. No matter where you are on your journey, I will meet you there, and together we will maximize your potential and develop a greater appreciation for yourself and your ability to reach your goals. Long-term change is a process; it won't happen overnight.

I am committed to assisting you in creating that change for yourself. I believe you possess within you all the skills and tools necessary for change, and I will assist you in discovering and learning how to utilize those tools in the most effective ways. I look forward to helping you find answers, direction, healing, and wellness. In therapy, many issues are openly discussed, but sex and sexual issues can be uncomfortable topics for many clients. Yet, many people have sexual issues that need to be resolved for life to be as fulfilling as it can be.

I am particularly passionate about working with women who are struggling with intimacy of any kind and are dedicated to improving this area of their lives. I also enjoy working with couples to help them identify the underlying issues causing strife in their relationships, rebuilding after infidelity, or increasing their ability to understand one another in order to help them design a marriage they can confidently pursue for a lifetime. I have been accepted into the Modern Sex Therapy Institute’s Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology Program, and I am excited to use this knowledge in my work with you!