Hi, I’m Carmen, a counselor at Strategies for Success. I hold a Master’s in Counseling and have additional graduate training in developmental disabilities and gerontology, along with an MBA.

My education and diverse work experience across multiple settings have prepared me to work with clients across the lifespan and across abilities, and I bring a first-generation immigrant perspective that helps me connect with clients from all walks of life.

I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, chronic illness, and relationship challenges. I also bring a unique background in career and workplace counseling, helping clients navigate employment concerns, workplace communication, and retirement planning. I have a particular passion for working with older adults, where I take a hands-on approach that includes connecting clients with community resources, navigating medical systems, and addressing practical alongside emotional barriers.

My approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, and Positive Psychology, among others. I tailor my methods to each client, but my core belief stays the same: therapy can go beyond resolving symptoms. I aim to help clients gain insight and clarity, build resilience, and leverage even difficult past experiences as strengths that shape a better future. I believe clients can achieve meaningful goals at any age, and the privilege of witnessing their growth is what I love about being a counselor the most.

Outside of work, I enjoy scuba diving, and am currently building an Alice in Wonderland-themed catification project for my cats (and occasional co-therapists) Alice and Winston.