Meet Jade!

Positionality:
I identify as a queer cisgender Latinx woman. I grew up in a bicultural household and identify as a first-generation Polish-Salvadorian-American.
 
My Background & Approach: 

I believe that each person holds infinite complexity in their identity and lived experiences. As a therapist, my goal is to join you in the process of uncovering that complexity and utilizing your self-knowledge so that you can experience greater empowerment, fulfillment, and joy in your life. My main focus in meeting with you will be to listen and understand, to build trust, and to provide an open and nonjudgmental space where anything that is important to you can be discussed.

 

With regards to my theoretical approach, I draw on relational-psychodynamic, social justice and feminist principles. As a relational psychodynamic therapist, I see our interpersonal functioning as crucial to our overall sense of well-being, and I view the therapeutic relationship as a powerful vehicle for change. During sessions, we may explore aspects such your feelings, desires, motivations, and ways of relating with others. However, I also believe that there is no “right way” for therapy to look and I strive to maintain flexibility and playfulness in my approach. As a multiculturally-grounded therapist, I believe that our experiences and our sense of well-being are shaped by the unique blend of privileged and marginalized identities that we each hold. My intention is to provide a space in which both our shared and differing aspects of personhood can be acknowledged, discussed openly, and appreciated.

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Credentials

I am a 4th-year doctoral student pursuing in my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Auburn University. I completed my M.A. in Counseling Psychology. I am working under the supervision of Dr. Sophia Aguirre Ph.D., CGP, FAGPA. My previous clinical experiences have included providing individual and group therapy to undergraduate and graduate students at the Columbus State University Counseling Center and the Auburn University's Student Counseling & Psychological Services center.  ​

 

Academic Training

• In Progress: Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, Auburn University; expected Spring 2024

• M.A. in Counseling Psychology, Auburn University

• ​B.S. in Psychology, University of Florida

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Professional Service & Membership

• American Psychological Association, Division 17 (Society of Counseling Psychology)
   

Outside of Work:

Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, listening to music, and spending time outdoors with my partner and my dog. My favorite music to listen to includes punk, new wave and reggaetón.