Gabrielle Montes De Oca

Hi, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and graduate of Florida International University, where I earned my Master of Social Work in 2024. My professional background is in behavioral health and substance use treatment, where I’ve had the opportunity to support individuals through difficult experiences, personal challenges, and meaningful change.

I enjoy working with adults and young adults navigating trauma, anxiety, women's mental health, identity exploration, relationship challenges, self-esteem, life transitions, and recovery. I also value providing an affirming space for LGBTQ+ individuals and people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

I believe we all deserve a space where we can feel understood, explore the parts of ourselves we may not always feel comfortable sharing, and make sense of our experiences without judgment. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, drawing from CBT, ACT, and narrative therapy. I want therapy to feel like a place where you can be yourself, move at your own pace, and work toward a life that feels more meaningful and authentic to you.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in the belief that meaningful change begins with feeling understood. I don't believe therapy is one-size-fits-all, so I work to understand each client's unique experiences, strengths, and needs rather than relying on a predetermined approach.

I draw from evidence-based practices, including CBT, ACT, and narrative therapy, while recognizing the importance of each person's cultural background, relationships, and lived experiences. I value curiosity, self-exploration, and helping clients develop a deeper understanding of the patterns and experiences that shape their lives.

My goal isn't to tell you who to be or how to live, but to help you feel more connected to yourself, build on your strengths, and move toward a life that feels meaningful and aligned with your values.

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin building a comfortable, trusting relationship. We'll talk about what brings you to therapy, what you've been experiencing, and what you hope to gain from the process. I'll ask questions to better understand your background, experiences, and goals, but there's no expectation that you share everything all at once. You can move at your own pace.

As we continue working together, we'll identify goals that feel meaningful to you and explore patterns, experiences, and challenges that may be affecting your well-being. Sessions will be guided by your needs and progress, with room to adjust as things change. My priority is to create a welcoming, judgment-free space where you feel heard, supported, and comfortable being yourself.