Lidiana Cartolano

I am Lidiana Cartolano, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and the founder of VIVA Psychotherapy. With over 20 years of experience, including my background as a psychologist in Brazil, I provide a space where you can feel safe, heard, and truly understood. My approach is rooted in the belief that therapy is a collaborative process of self-discovery; I work with children, adolescents, and adults in both English and Portuguese to navigate the complex connections between thoughts, emotions, and actions. Whether we are utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused techniques, or Mindfulness, my goal is to help you gain the self-knowledge and practical tools needed to improve your relationships and take back control of your life. I am here to walk alongside you with honesty and empathy as you build a more fulfilling and resilient future.

My approach to therapy is rooted in over 20 years of experience, including my background as a psychologist in Brazil and as the founder of VIVA Psychotherapy. I utilize a trauma-informed lens helping you uncover unconscious patterns and quiet the inner critic that often stems from past experiences. By blending evidence-based strategies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Systemic Family Therapy, and Art and Play Therapy, I work collaboratively with children, adolescents, and adults to address root causes rather than just symptoms. My goal is to help you realign with an authentic, calm sense of self and build the emotional clarity needed to foster healthier relationships and a more balanced life.

In your first session with me, you can expect a warm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where the primary goal is to ensure you feel heard and understood. As we begin our journey together at VIVA Psychotherapy, I focus on building a strong therapeutic bond rooted in trust and emotional safety.

Rather than asking "What’s wrong with you?", I approach our work through a trauma-informed lens that asks "What happened to you?" This allows us to meet you exactly where you are in real-time, exploring your unique story and identifying the specific goals you wish to achieve. Whether we are communicating in English or Portuguese, my approach is collaborative; we will work as a team to uncover your inner strengths, navigate your current challenges, and begin developing practical tools to help you create a more meaningful and balanced life.

Find more at www.vivapsychotherapy.com