Introduction

Hello! My name is JoAngela! I am excited to get to work alongside you to help you on your journey of healing and growth. I believe building strong rapport with clients is vital to creating a safe and welcoming therapeutic environment. Therefore, I work hard to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where all clients feel heard. No matter your story, I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to heal and thrive in life.

My Approach

My therapeutic approach is client-centered and strengths-based, guided by trauma informed and culturally responsive practices. I believe in meeting each person where they are, honoring their unique experiences, and recognizing their strengths to empower growth and healing. I incorporate a variety of therapeutic modalities into my work including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), attachment-based strategies, mindfulness and self-compassion practices, Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), and solution-focused strategies.

My Clients

I have experience working with diverse populations including adults navigating relationship issues, life stressors, life transitions, complex trauma, parenting issues, dual diagnosis, low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.

More specifically, I have extensive experience working with domestic violence and childhood trauma including physical, emotional and sexual abuse. I enjoy working with parents and caregivers of all kinds, including those involved in foster care as well as adults providing care for aging parents and relatives.

In addition, I have worked extensively with clients involved in trans racial adoptions, and have supported both adoptees and adoptive parents through this process.

I have experience supporting trans youth as they navigate struggles unique to their experience.

Overall, my work honors intersectionality and the ways culture, identity and trauma shape our stories. I welcome individuals from diverse cultural, racial and socioeconomic backgrounds.

My Background

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work at the University of Texas in Arlington in 2012; I have 15 years of experience working with clients in a therapeutic setting. I hold additional certifications in Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Healing Centered Engagement (HCE), and Trauma Conscious Yoga Method (TCYM) . When I am not working, I enjoy traveling, watching movies, exploring culture through food. I value meaningful connection and good conversation.