Nayeli Gonzalez, ACSW
Associate Clinical Social Worker | working under supervision
Specialties
Complex Trauma
Life Transitions
First Gen Experiences
Depression
Anxiety
Self-Esteem
Personal Empowerment
Who I Work With
Individuals and families to help them heal and live a life of fulfillment, peace, and joy.
About
My goal is to empower individuals within my community, particularly those from diverse cultural backgrounds, to heal from their past traumas and current challenges. Ultimately, I strive to contribute to a community where psychotherapy is accessible and tailored to meet the specific needs of every individual.
My motivation stems from a deep rooted compassion for individuals who are navigating complex issues such as trauma, life changes, and cultural identity. As a first-generation Mexican-American bilingual psychotherapist, I understand firsthand the challenges of navigating different cultural and societal contexts. I am driven by a desire to provide support and guidance to those who may feel marginalized or misunderstood, and to help them discover their strengths and capabilities.
My journey into therapy began with curiosity in understanding the connection between behaviors, thoughts, feelings, and emotions.. This sparked my passion for social work and later on I discovered the integration of social work and psychotherapy. I pursued my education with the goal of helping people heal, learn, and grow from their life experiences. Throughout my career, I gained practical experience in non-profit organizations, psychiatric hospitals, and group practices, honing my skills in addiction recovery and mental health treatment. Each step of my journey reinforced my commitment to helping others and guided me towards becoming a therapist dedicated to providing compassionate care.
In therapy, I cultivate a warm and empathetic environment where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. My approach is collaborative, client-centered, and strengths-based. I tailor my interventions to align with each client's unique needs, values, and preferences, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I am actively engaged in sessions, offering support, insight, and encouragement as we work together towards healing, empowerment, and personal growth.
I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities to best support my clients' therapeutic journey. Each modality is selected and adapted based on the client's needs, preferences, and therapeutic goals.
These include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Addressing thought patterns and behaviors.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): Emphasizing mindfulness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal skills.
Psychodynamic Therapy: Exploring unconscious processes and past experiences.
Trauma-Informed Therapy: Acknowledging the widespread complexities and impact of trauma, emphasizing safety and empowerment.
Family Systems Therapy: Understanding relational dynamics and family influences.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Bilateral stimulation to assist clients in reprocessing distressing memories and reducing their emotional impact.
My superpower lies in my ability to navigate the complexities of cultural identity, intergenerational trauma, and its impact on mental health. My commitment to empathy, cultural humility, and collaborative healing sets me apart, ensuring that each client receives personalized support that helps them find purpose, healing, and fulfillment.
Off the Clock
Shop, Travel, try new coffee spots, and try new restaurants
Education
Bachelor's Degree in Human Services from Hope International University
Master’s Degree in Social Work from University of Massachusetts Global
Certifications
Certified Domestic Violence Counselor
Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional