Clara Lopez

I am an Associate Professional Counselor (PLPC), under clinical supervision, and my professional training integrates different aspects of physical, emotional and mental well-being. I have a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, with a concentration in Physical Activity and Health, as well as two minors in Psychology and Biology. Subsequently, I earned a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Throughout my training and professional experience, I have had the opportunity to work in private practice, Intensive Outpatient Treatment (IOP) programs, and residential treatment (inpatient) hospital settings. These experiences have allowed me to accompany people at different moments in their therapeutic processes, from crisis situations to healing, growth and personal transformation processes.

My main areas of interest and specialization include anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, self-compassion, trauma-related symptoms, attachment difficulties, life transitions, relationship problems, and stress management. My therapeutic approach is integrative and informed by evidence-based practices and different complementary approaches. I integrate tools from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to support emotional regulation, develop coping skills, and facilitate behavioral changes. My work is also informed by attachment-based approaches, the Adlerian model, person-centered therapy, compassion, and a strengths-based approach. I firmly believe that each person has a unique story, needs and experiences, which is why I seek to adapt the therapeutic process to each individual and accompany them in a way that is meaningful to their reality.

For me, therapy should be a safe, authentic and judgment-free space, where people can feel heard, understood and accompanied. My goal is to walk alongside my clients as they explore their experiences, face their challenges, and develop tools that allow them to move toward a life more aligned with their needs and values. I hope that through this process you can strengthen your resilience, develop greater self-compassion, understand yourself better, and build healthier relationships.

My decision to become a therapist also stems from a very personal experience. I have had the opportunity to be in therapy myself and know first-hand the positive impact it can have on a person's life. That experience was transformative for me and sparked a deep passion for this field. Additionally, during my university years, while working as a tutor, I was able to see how mental health can influence practically all areas of our lives. These experiences reinforced my desire to accompany other people in their own healing and growth processes.

I believe that being a therapist also means constantly learning. For this reason, I continue to strengthen my training through continuing education courses and the review of scientific research, especially on new topics and approaches that can provide useful tools to my practice and benefit the people I accompany.

If you are considering starting therapy, I want to remind you that it is never too late to give yourself the time and space you need to heal. Many times we do not imagine the impact that therapy can have on our lives until we allow ourselves to take that first step. Seeking support is an act of courage and a way to invest in your well-being. I hope that, in time, you can feel proud of having made the decision to prioritize yourself and begin this process.

I also carry my roots with me and deeply value the opportunity to work with the Hispanic and bilingual community. I am inspired to be able to offer a therapeutic space in Spanish where people can feel understood not only from their individual experiences, but also from their culture, history and context. For me, being able to accompany each person in a close, authentic and culturally sensitive way is a very significant part of my work.