My name is Cecilia Baez and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) located in Florida. I am fluent in English and Spanish. I have over 15 years of experience and a strong background in addressing parenting and family concerns, as well as assisting children and adolescents dealing with behavioral issues, defiance, anxiety, ADHD, depression, and stress. In addition, I have experience working with individuals who face depression, anxiety, domestic violence, emotional distress, isolation, grief, self-harm, and interpersonal relationship challenges. I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the specific needs of my clients. My preferred techniques include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which focus on utilizing clients' strengths to achieve desired outcomes and improve overall well-being and emotional stability.
My approach
My approach to therapy varies based on the needs on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. These approaches focus on uncovering and utilizing the strengths of my clients, addressing unwanted behaviors and emotions, and gaining a deeper understanding of their current life circumstances. Together, we collaborate on developing a path towards successful recovery and emotional stability.
My focus
Over the years, my extensive experience has allowed me to gain a deep understanding and respect for various common life struggles. Some of these include parenting issues with young children and adolescents, who often face challenges like defiance, behavioral issues, and diagnoses such as ADHD, ODD, depression, anxiety, and isolation. Additionally, I have found success in assisting adults and couples as they navigate personal difficulties and life transitions, guiding them toward a more satisfying life and relationships. My approach involves empowering clients to build upon their strengths, develop necessary skills, and cultivate personal resources to foster internal growth and a positive outlook on life. As a member of both the Hispanic and European cultures, I am especially passionate about providing a supportive environment for each client, helping to break down the stigmas associated with mental health in our community.
My communication style
I have a warm and friendly communication style that focuses on creating a calm and comfortable environment for my clients. I am highly empathic and always prioritize understanding and meeting the specific needs of each client I work with. As a supportive and flexible therapist, I actively listen and ensure that my clients feel safe and welcome to share any concerns or challenges they may have. It is important to me that my clients feel understood, respected, and valued throughout our therapeutic journey together. I firmly believe that building a positive and empathic relationship based on mutual acceptance is key to achieving successful outcomes in therapy.
My journey to mental healthcare
I embarked on this extensive journey driven by my passion for gaining a deeper understanding of human behavior. Exploring the factors that drive our actions, comprehending emotions, and enhancing mental well-being has been highly enlightening to me. With years of dedicated study and specialization in various domains, it has become second nature for me to share my knowledge and insights to support others in their own growth and accomplishment. Witnessing the progress my clients make, both in the short and long term, as they achieve their goals, enhance their lives, and reclaim their self-assurance and self-value, has brought me immense satisfaction. These experiences have continuously fueled my motivation, propelling me forward on this journey to this very day.
My goals for you
My approach to goal setting with my clients is based on individual needs and challenges, focusing on what they hope to change in order to enhance their mental health, coping abilities, and emotional well-being. This process involves working together to identify desired outcomes and determine the necessary steps to achieve those goals. Establishing trust and providing a safe environment are always top priorities during our sessions. We will consistently review the goals and monitor the progress made.
My first session with you
What you can expect from our first session together is for us to spend the majority of our time talking about how you have been feeling recently, so that I can understand what brings you to therapy and what may be some of the potential reasons that could explain why you are feeling in that particular way. This first session will also serve as an opportunity for us to establish a connection and start cultivating a safe environment where both of us can feel at ease. Moreover, this session will aid me in gaining insight into the next steps we should take. Recognizing the uniqueness of each client, I prioritize active listening, which will enable us to begin working together to determine the most suitable approach for your future progress.