Victoria Cruz, LSW, is a therapist passionate about Holistic Wellness and a recent clinician with Rivia Mind. And this week, she’s our clinician spotlight! Welcome Victoria with us by learning all about her approach to therapy and what she has to say to incoming patients.
Specialty & Approach To Therapy
Victoria is dedicated to trauma-informed care and strengths-based solution-focused therapy. “Through research and practice, I have witnessed how trauma-informed care offers an invitation to explore what ‘stabilizing and healing’ could be for each individual,” Victoria explains, “while strengths-based solution-focused therapy inspires us to tend to the ‘here and now,’ leveraging our inherent resources, promoting curiosity, fostering resilience and addressing which and what change could be pursued to feel affirmed as our authentic selves.”
She describes her approach to therapy as: “person-centered, regarding cultural humility and cultural responsiveness so I can tailor psychotherapeutic interventions for each unique individual.”
Advice To Those Seeking Mental Healthcare
Reaching out for mental health support for the first time is a brave decision, and that bravery is the first thing Victoria acknowledges. “You deserve to capitalize on the bravery you have, to consider how and what you are feeling by taking steps at your pace!” she says. “The journey with the self, as well as with healing, is not linear. It may seem counterintuitive to go at our own pace, especially when circumstances and responsibilities are demanding…however, we know through research and ongoing practice that taking a metaphorical and literal breath not only gives us rest but refreshes us to be sustained for our ongoing hopes.”
But what about finding the right provider to offer you the support you need? We work with a number of skilled and compassionate clinicians at Rivia Mind, but the relationship between provider and patient is crucial to care.
“It may be intimidating to begin the search for a provider. You may either be matched by chance or choice. The hopes that you have for the session are significant, even if you are not exactly sure where to start. I believe that it is essential to note how your provider joins with you in the therapeutic space to form a therapeutic alliance. It can be powerful to consider, Do I feel heard, respected, and play an active role in sessions? If you have any questions or concerns between you and a new/current provider, there is worth in advocating for the self by vocalizing them. If you do not feel safe to do so, it is fair to take a step back while you reflect and reevaluate needs.”
Finding Balance through Self-Care
Even therapists need self-care! So how does Victoria find her valuable “me time”?
“Generally, unwinding from my day includes fresh air, time with loved ones, and a small check-in with my pink planner! I nurture my wellness through a few self-care avenues: healthy movement, balanced nutrition, music, connection to loved ones, prayer, and whatever else I might need.”
Looking for mental health support? Our skilled and compassionate providers, like Victoria, are here to help. Contact Rivia Mind today to learn more or to find a provider.
