Mental Health Counseling

Individual
& Groups

English
& Portuguese

In Person
& Virtual

The more the therapist becomes a real person…

and avoids self-protective or professional masks or roles, the more the patient will reciprocate and change in a constructive direction. ”
― Carl R. Rogers, A Way of Being

“Being a therapist is incredibly fulfilling; it’s an honor to support people on their journey of growth and self-discovery. I love helping clients evolve, overcome challenges, and realize their potential. It’s a privilege to be a guide, offering insight and encouragement as they navigate their path toward a healthier, happier life.” – Lidiana Cartolano

CONDITIONS AND SPECIALTIES

At VIVA Psychotherapy, we provide compassionate and personalized care for a wide range of conditions. We are equipped to help clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem, stress management, life transitions, and more. We are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive space where you can work through these concerns and embark on a journey toward healing and personal growth.

Depressive Disorders

Depressive disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. These disorders include Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder (dysthymia), and Seasonal Affective Disorder. Symptoms may also include changes in appetite and sleep patterns, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Effective treatment for depressive disorders typically involves a combination of therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), medication, and lifestyle changes, to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive fear, worry, and nervousness that interfere with daily life. These disorders can manifest in various forms, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and specific phobias. Symptoms often include persistent and overwhelming feelings of anxiety, physical symptoms like heart palpitations and sweating, and avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations. Effective treatment for anxiety disorders typically involves a combination of therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), medication, and mindfulness practices, to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Trauma-Related Disorders

Trauma-related disorders are mental health conditions that develop in response to experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. These disorders can include Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Acute Stress Disorder, and Adjustment Disorders. Symptoms may involve flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Individuals with trauma-related disorders often struggle with emotional regulation, relationships, and daily functioning. Effective treatment typically includes therapy approaches such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and other trauma-informed care techniques to help individuals process and heal from their traumatic experiences.

Dual-Diagnosis

Dual-diagnosis refers to the condition of having both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder simultaneously. This complex condition requires integrated treatment that addresses both issues concurrently, as they often interact and exacerbate each other. Common examples of dual-diagnosis include individuals with depression and alcohol addiction, or anxiety and opioid dependence. Effective treatment typically involves a combination of therapeutic approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), medication management, and support groups, to help individuals achieve recovery and improve their overall well-being.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to alleviate anxiety caused by these thoughts. Common obsessions include fears of contamination, harming others, or a need for symmetry, while compulsions might involve excessive cleaning, checking, or arranging items in a specific order. OCD can significantly interfere with daily functioning and quality of life. Effective treatment typically involves Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and sometimes medication to help individuals manage symptoms and regain control over their lives.

Autism and ADHD

Counseling services for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism offer tailored support to individuals and their families, focusing on developing coping strategies, social skills, and behavioral management techniques. For individuals with ADHD, counseling often addresses challenges related to attention, impulsivity, time management, and organization, helping them build skills to improve daily functioning. For Autism, counseling may focus on enhancing communication, social interactions, emotional regulation, and coping with sensory sensitivities. These services may include individual therapy, social skills training, family counseling, and behavior therapy, providing a comprehensive approach that fosters personal growth, improved self-esteem, and better adaptation to everyday challenges.

Family and Relationship Issues

Family and relationship issues in mental health encompass the psychological challenges that arise within familial and interpersonal dynamics. These issues can manifest in various forms, including communication breakdowns, conflict resolution difficulties, emotional or physical abuse, and complex dynamics such as codependency or enabling behaviors. Addressing these issues in therapy involves exploring patterns of interaction, identifying unhealthy behaviors or thought patterns, and fostering healthier communication and boundaries. Therapy aims to enhance understanding, empathy, and resilience within relationships, ultimately promoting emotional well-being and healthier family dynamics.

Parent Consultation

Parent consultation in mental health involves a collaborative process where mental health professionals work closely with parents or caregivers to support the well-being of their child or adolescent. It focuses on providing parents with guidance, education, and strategies to better understand and address their child’s emotional, behavioral, and developmental needs. Through parent consultation, families can gain insights into effective parenting techniques, learn how to navigate challenging behaviors, and receive support in fostering positive family dynamics. This collaborative approach aims to empower parents, enhance their parenting skills, and promote a nurturing environment that supports their child’s mental health and overall development.

Career Counseling

Career counseling services provide guidance and support to individuals in exploring, developing, and pursuing their career goals. These services help clients understand their skills, interests, values, and personality traits, assisting them in making informed career choices. Through assessments, personalized counseling sessions, and resources, therapists help individuals in identifying potential career paths, setting achievable goals, and creating action plans. They also offer advice on job search strategies, resume writing, interview preparation, and navigating career transitions, ensuring clients feel confident and prepared to pursue fulfilling career opportunities.

Immigrant Mental Health

Immigrant mental health needs in therapy often encompass a range of unique challenges stemming from the migration experience. Immigrants may face acculturation stress, language barriers, cultural adjustment issues, and trauma related to migration itself or experiences in their home countries. Therapy for immigrant mental health focuses on providing culturally sensitive support, addressing identity formation, navigating cultural differences, and helping individuals cope with discrimination or isolation. It aims to foster resilience, strengthen coping skills, and empower individuals to integrate their cultural backgrounds with their new environment, promoting holistic well-being and adjustment in their new home.

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VIVA Psychotherapy