Cathlyn Fraguela Rios

As a Latina mother and spouse in a mixed‐race family, I value the complexity of identity, culture, and relationships, and I understand how these layers shape the challenges people face. I enjoy cooking, reading, and spending time with friends, these activities keep me grounded and connected and I bring that same sense of connection into my practice.

My background spans community mental health, inpatient psychiatry, integrated primary care, and private practice. I’ve worked with individuals across the lifespan, from children in school‐based therapy to older adults living with Alzheimer’s and supporting their families. I am trained in multiple evidence‐based practices, including Motivational Interviewing, CBT, TF‐CBT, ACT, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, and Mindfulness‐Based Stress Reduction and I draw from each to tailor care to what fits you best.

At the core, clients should know that I believe meaningful change happens through genuine connection. My role is to understand you deeply, help you think through what you’re facing, and collaborate on a path forward that feels sustainable and true to who you are.

My approach is relational, collaborative, and practical. I focus on building a strong therapeutic connection because I believe people grow best when they feel seen, understood, and supported without judgment. I don’t use a one‐size‐fits‐all method my work is about figuring out what works for you so that change lasts beyond our sessions.

I integrate evidence‐based strategies with a warm, human approach. Together, we explore your strengths, patterns, and values, and we identify tools that help you move through challenges in a way that feels manageable and empowering. I see therapy as a partnership: you bring your lived experience, and I bring clinical training and curiosity. We meet in the middle to create meaningful, sustainable change.

In our first session, clients can expect a calm, welcoming space focused on getting to know you—not just your challenges, but your strengths, your story, and what matters most to you. We’ll talk about what brought you in, what you’re hoping to work on, and what has or hasn’t helped in the past.

You can expect me to ask thoughtful questions, listen closely, and begin identifying themes that may shape our work together. I’ll share my approach, answer any questions you have, and collaborate with you on initial goals. Most importantly, you can expect to feel supported, respected, and met exactly where you are. The first session is about building connection and creating a foundation for the work ahead.