Oscar Sida

I am a bilingual (Spanish) licensed clinical professional counselor and a licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor in the State of Nevada, USA. I work in practice in Southern Nevada in the Las Vegas area, where I teach courses in mental health counseling, assessment, and treatment of addiction disorders. For my clinical work, I specialize in process addictions and psychological trauma. I have worked extensively with clients suffering from psychological trauma, addictions, and pathological gambling-related issues. For the basis of my clinical practice, I work from a humanistic client-centered approach. In my work with addictions, I utilize a strength-based perspective. My clinical interests are in developmental processes and their relationship to mental illness, addictions, and substance use disorders. I have been featured in print media, television, and film for my expertise, and I have presented as a speaker for regional, national, and international conferences. I hold a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, both from The University of Nevada, Las Vegas. In addition, I hold the following privileged licenses in the State of Nevada and National Certification:

National Certified Counselor #269829

Clinical Professional Counselor #CP0096

Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor 367-LC

Certified Problem Gambling Counselor 199-CG

My approach to therapy is client-centered, trauma-informed, and grounded in evidence-based practice. I work collaboratively with clients to understand patterns that contribute to distress and to develop practical strategies that support change.

My style is structured, reflective, and supportive, with attention to ethical practice and cultural responsiveness. My primary areas of focus include substance use and behavioral addictions, trauma-related concerns, and co-occurring mental health conditions.

In the first session, clients can expect an open conversation focused on understanding their concerns, background, and goals for therapy. I typically gather relevant history, discuss what has brought them to counseling, and begin identifying areas they would like to work on.

I aim to create a professional, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable speaking openly. By the end of the session, we usually clarify initial goals for treatment and discuss possible directions for the therapeutic work moving forward.