Clara Pena

I specialize in supporting individuals navigating grief and bereavement, trauma, chronic health challenges or disabilities, anger management, and cultural or ethnic identity concerns. I understand that these experiences can feel overwhelming, isolating, and deeply personal. My goal is to provide a space where you feel seen, heard, and respected—without judgment. I bring a culturally responsive lens to therapy, recognizing how background, identity, and lived experience shape the way we cope and heal. Whether you're dealing with a recent loss, unresolved trauma, or ongoing life stressors, I’m here to help you move toward stability, clarity, and meaningful change.

My approach is collaborative, practical, and grounded in evidence-based methods. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns, as well as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to process trauma and reduce emotional distress tied to difficult experiences. I tailor each session to your unique needs, blending structure with flexibility. Together, we’ll work on building coping strategies, increasing emotional awareness, and developing tools that you can apply in your daily life. I also emphasize cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, ensuring that therapy aligns with your values and personal context.

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin building a foundation of trust. We’ll talk about what brings you to therapy, your current challenges, and what you hope to achieve. I’ll ask some questions to better understand your background, history, and goals, but you are always in control of what you choose to share. We’ll also discuss how therapy works, outline a potential plan, and address any questions or concerns you may have. Most importantly, you can expect a supportive, respectful environment where your experiences are taken seriously and your voice matters.