Meet Dr. Jhokania!

Jhokania De Los Santos, PH.D.

Licensed Psychologist

Pronouns: She/her/hers

Positionality: I identify as an Afro-Latina cisgender woman. Born to Dominican immigrant parents, I have been raised in a bilingual and bicultural home. Clients who work with me can speak English, Spanish, Spanglish, or a mix of these in our sessions.
 

My Background & Approach:

Hello! I am Dr. Jhokania De Los Santos. Throughout my career as a bilingual therapist, I have had the privilege of supporting Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), as well as Latinx individuals, through the challenges and transitions of adulthood—often in the face of systemic barriers and communities that may not fully support their growth. My clinical work is driven by a passion for advancing culturally responsive therapeutic practices that not only affirm the lived experiences of BIPOC individuals but also honor their unique cultural identities. I integrate holistic approaches that address mental, physical, and spiritual wellness, equipping clients with the tools they need to heal themselves.

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In addition to individual therapy, I provide inclusive couples therapy with a special focus on the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals and those in ethically nonmonogamous relationships. I understand that traditional models of couples therapy may not always fit the unique dynamics of queer and nonmonogamous partnerships. My goal is to create a space where all relationship structures are respected and where each partner’s voice is heard. By exploring issues such as communication, boundaries, trust, and intimacy, I help couples build stronger, healthier connections while honoring their individual identities and the relationship style that works best for them.

 

Therapy is a collaborative journey, and I make it as interactive as possible, incorporating reflection, self-compassion exercises, and practical tools to help clients better understand themselves and take meaningful action. I believe in the liberation of the mind as a crucial part of overall wellness and personal freedom. My role is to empower you in making autonomous decisions, gaining control over your health, finding meaning and coherence in your experiences, and maintaining a strong sense of social integration. Ultimately, you are the expert of your own life, and I am here to support you on that journey.
 

Theoretical & Clinical Orientation:

A key aspect of my practice is the commitment to social justice, cultural affirmation, and anti-oppressive frameworks. I recognize that systemic oppression and discrimination have far-reaching effects on mental health and well-being.  Primarily, my approaches are grounded in an integrative ecological approach largely influenced by Interpersonal Process Therapy (IPT), Multicultural Feminist Therapy (MFT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I emphasize the exploration of a client’s many intersecting identities and how these identities impact our lived experiences.

 

I strive to help people reclaim their vitality within a safe space in a few months, despite a long time living out of alignment. I use strength-based approaches in therapy to build on a clients’ own inner strengths, instead of trying to fix weaknesses or deficits. This approach allows me to emphasize the importance of identifying and using support resources available in the client’s life to help them see beyond what is lacking in their lives. It’s important that we realize that all people have inherent value, and I’ll make sure to shine a light to help clients see their own worth.

 

As a therapist, I wear many hats, and they include being a facilitator of self-discovery; a change agent helping to pry the client loose from negative life patterns, and a helper toward the client’s authentic being. Throughout the therapeutic process, the client will recognize the lasting impact of past experiences and traumas on current relationships, beliefs, and behaviors.

Professional Credentials

• Licensed Psychologist - New York #026481; Rhode Island #02290

• PSYPACT E. Passport for Interjurisdictional Practice - Mobility Certification: #19670
   

Education

• Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, The University of Georgia

• M.A. in Clinical Psychology, Columbia University

• B.A. in Psychology, University of Rhode Island

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Additional Clinical Specializations

• Advanced Primary Care Certificate, Montefiore Medical Center

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Professional Affiliations

• Member, National Latinx Psychological Association