About

This is probably the part where I am supposed to say, “I love hiking and helping people,” and let artificial intelligence fill in the rest. The truth is that we therapists do not like talking about ourselves. And yet, I notice that the more real a provider’s profile sounds, the more I am drawn in. Self-professed imperfect humans wanting to help other imperfect humans elicits my trust. My hope is that this section offers a glimpse of the real me.

Not long ago, a client asked me, “What made you decide to become a therapist?” I felt caught off guard. The last time I had answered that question was likely on my graduate school application 16 years ago. I knew I wanted to offer him and myself an answer that felt more honest and alive than the usual rehearsed response.

“As far back as I can remember, I have been captivated by people,” I replied. I would curiously observe the intricate lives of my parents, teachers, grocery clerks -even strangers- and wonder what had shaped them. The more complex the story, the more drawn in I felt.

For a long time, I understood this through psychological lenses: an adaptation shaped by an emotionally unpredictable childhood environment where my survival depended on anticipating and making meaning out of my parent’s reactions. A trauma response that kept me “in my head” rather than in the present. And while that holds truth, it is only part of the story.

Over time, I came to realize that attuned listening was truly my gift, one shaped both by grace and by the soul bruising left by the people who loved me most as a child.  A “wound-turned-into-gift” kind of story. 

Embracing this ever-giving gift has infused my life with purpose, hope and meaning. Most of what I know about resilience, courage, and what it means to be deeply human has come from the thousands of people I have had the honor to walk alongside over the past 14 years. Perhaps you reader, will be part of what continues to teach me what I most need to learn and for this, I am already grateful. 

Warmly,

Cecilia 

P.S. This is my favorite photo for a reason. During the photoshoot, I chose to leave the therapist’s chair and sit on the client’s couch instead, where I felt most at ease.  Looking at it now, I take it as a reminder to step outside my professional self from time to time and practice what I preach: the real Us will always look more grounded, at ease and alive than any of the roles we carry.