Gender: Female
Language: English
Patient Age: Adults
In Person Location: CT Office
Virtual Appointments: CT
State Licensed In: CT
In this ever-changing world, normalizing conversations about mental health is more essential than ever as a way to lead fulfilling and balanced lives.
Andi graduated with honors from Fairfield University’s CACREP accredited Master’s Degree program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Furthermore, Andi is a high-level squash player from El Salvador who was recruited to play squash at one of the best programs in the US and successfully graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Trinity College in Harford, CT. This experience was significantly impactful as the team was composed of student-athletes from all over the world, including Sri Lanka, South Africa, Colombia, Scotland, Mexico, etc., which ultimately broadened her understanding regarding different cultures, religions, and identities, deepening her appreciation and curiosity for what unites us as humans. Furthermore, Andi is also an advocate for SquashLatina and has worked closely with many student-athletes now enrolled in top-tier schools such as the University of Virginia, Middlebury, and Harvard University.
Moreover, Andi’s clinical background experience allows her to provide empathetic, bilingual services (English and Spanish) to individuals navigating a wide range of challenges, including coping with trauma, cultural adaptation, and dual diagnoses, including Depression, Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, OCD, as well as Identity Exploration. Additionally, Andi has also had the privilege of leading and co-facilitating Intensive Outpatient Treatment (IOP) for individuals struggling with Substance Use Disorder (SUD) as well as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) groups.
Lastly, Andi approaches each client with the understanding that there is no “one-size-fits-all solution”. Everyone has a story, making each individuals’ needs unique; which is why Andi prides herself on creating an open and judgment-free environment where clients feel safe, heard, and empowered. Her therapeutic approach is adaptable, drawing from Client-Centered, Strength-Based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT, and Motivational Interviewing (MI) models, all grounded in the latest evidence-based practices and interventions to ensure a positive counseling experience and the best outcomes for her clients.