Meet Coral
I am a first generation Latina raised in a multi-cultural home; I spent my life bouncing between two very different cultures, speaking Spanish at home and English at school. I get that feeling that you’re having right now, trying to make separate worlds fit together and I understand. It’s not easy finding the right balance that works for you with so many people offering opinions and judgement but not actual help.
My life was shaped by strong people facing various stressors and continual changes. I spent years searching for the answer to every problem, until I realized the balance that worked for me might not be the same for everyone. Now, I have the privilege of helping the bravest of men and women every day. find the right balance for themselves; whether its in their relationships, balancing work and home life, or the million of other activities that shape our lives.
These experiences inspired me to go to graduate school to obtain a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. Before that, I worked in a hospital emergency room and a crisis hotline in the heart of Houston, Texas while I attended Rice University. I understand that not all situations are clear cut.
As you may well know, it can be hard to talk about what is causing you stress with loved ones. They may try to help but often, it just feels like more of a burden after. Especially when their words of wisdom are more saturated in criticism, even if it is well-intended.
Oftentimes, being the one to ask for help can feel like a weakness, or worse: you may be concerned it means you are not as strong as you thought. Especially when you hear things like, “toughen up,” “life’s not fair,” or “we don’t talk about those things.” The reality is that asking for help can be one of the greatest acts of bravery.
Turning on the news is no less anxiety provoking. The feelings of tension continue to seep through your devices. The world is in crisis after crisis and we have not cleared one when the next begins. When the dust settles, where does that leave you? Or better yet, where do you want to be?
Ultimately, helping others is in my genes.
After a decade away, I have returned to Orange County - the community that raised me - implementing the values of hard work and resilience I learned growing up here. I understand the culture and the fear that results from the stigma surrounding therapy, which is why I offer confidential services. I do not want you to worry about others treating you differently or questioning your value. The fact that you are seeking help is proof that you are proactive about remaining at optimal mental and emotional fitness. It can be really tough to talk to a stranger but in many ways, it can be a relief as well. Who better to share what keeps you from sleeping than with a person who will not judge or criticize anything you say or do and will maintain confidentiality? Added bonus: this particular person is trained to provide therapy.
Let’s get started.
Text or Call me at (714) 660-3335 any time.