Laisa Cruz Santiago

I'm a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with more than seven years of clinical experience in outpatient and crisis care. I earned my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Inter American University of Puerto Rico, after a bachelor's degree in Forensic Psychology.

I work with people navigating depression and mood disorders, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, ADHD, emotional regulation, identity, relationship struggles and life transitions. I want therapy to feel like a conversation, not an interview. You don't need perfect words, and you don't need to have everything figured out before you begin. Sessions are available in English or Spanish.

My orientation is primarily psychodynamic. I'm interested in how early experiences, relationships and inner conflicts may continue to shape how we feel, relate and respond today, and in the meaning of symptoms, not only their relief. Depending on your needs and goals, I thoughtfully integrate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), trauma-informed care, person-centered therapy and motivational interviewing.

I believe the therapeutic relationship itself is one of the most meaningful parts of the work. My aim is not to make anyone a "perfect" version of themselves, but to walk alongside you toward greater authenticity, awareness and freedom.

Our first session is a space to get to know each other. I'll ask about what brings you in, your history and what you hope will change, and you're welcome to ask me anything about how I work. You may also complete a short questionnaire about how you've been feeling, which helps us track your progress over time.

There's no pressure to share everything at once. Together we'll begin shaping goals and a plan that fits your needs and moves at a pace that feels safe for you.