Heira Hernandez

Hi there, I am happy you decided to stop for a moment and take a look at my profile! I know starting the therapy is a major decision and searching for that one counselor that just feels "right" is probably overwhelming. So, let me tell you a little bit about myself, my education, and my experience. I graduated from the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology in 2006 and from the University of Phoenix in Puerto Rico with a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling in 2014. Since then, I've worked with homeless populations, sex offenders, immigrants from Central America, children, teenagers, and populations from 0-17 years of age. I've also worked in non-profit organizations, private practice, and emergency management organizations. I am passionate about counseling others to help each of my clients identify their inner potential, heal, and work through their traumas. I hope this short bio inspires you to come into the world of tele-counseling with a new perspective.

My approach

My theoretical approaches are Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, narrative, existential, solution-focused, and client-centered therapy. My specialties include: Anger Management, Anxiety, Women’s Issues, Behavioral Issues, Depression, Coping Skills, Mood Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), Life Transitions, Oppositional Defiance, Self Esteem, Stress, Trauma and PTSD. My modalities include the following: Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Existential, Narrative, Culturally Sensitive, Person-Centered, Coaching

My focus

I provide each client with an individualized treatment plan according to their needs. What makes a client an "ideal" client is that the client is willing to participate in therapy and be willing to grow through as they go through therapy. The care I provide to each client is individualized, and I give each client the care they need after the session is over. The treatment plan would be designed to fit each client during and after the session and provide them with the skills and resources they need once therapy has concluded.

My communication style

I have strengthened my listening skills throughout my years of experience. I listened more than I talked during the first few sessions. My tone is soft and low tone. I am down to earth, have a good sense of humor, and have a reserved yet friendly demeanor. I provide a safe and stable environment for the client to feel calm and at ease during the session.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey to becoming a therapist is unique, like many other therapists. I know what it feels like to be on the other side of the couch. In my opinion, what makes an excellent therapist is not only education, experience, and training but to understand the client through their eyes.

My goals for you

The therapeutic goals established for each client will differ for each client as each client is unique in their own way. One of the goals would be to improve self-esteem (for example). This will enable the client to achieve personal and professional goals for themselves. A successful progress would have the client achieve a higher level oneself value and worth and belief he can achieve the goals they set out for themselves in their life. If the person does not believe in themselves once they start therapy, but after therapy, they do believe in themselves and apply this principle, then that is a success and progress.

My first session with you

The first session is to provide a safe, warm and inviting environment for the client to feel calm and at ease. I provide them with expectations of therapy, introduce myself and provide them space to talk about why they're seeking therapy to set goals and expectations.