Gerizim Perez

I offer therapy for teens and adults who are navigating questions of identity, life transitions, chronic illness, and complex or challenging relationships. Together, we take time to understand how these experiences are affecting you and work toward practical ways to cope—whether that means managing mood, shifting unhelpful thought patterns, building supportive habits, or setting boundaries that feel right for you. My goal is to help you develop deeper self-understanding, resilience, and a greater sense of clarity as you move through change.

I often draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This means we’ll gently explore how earlier experiences—like family dynamics or messages you received growing up—may still be shaping how you see yourself and the world. At the same time, we’ll work on finding ways to relate to difficult thoughts and emotions with more openness and flexibility, so they feel less overwhelming and easier to manage.

​

Feeling safe, respected, and truly heard is at the heart of my work. I aim to create a space where you can show up as you are, without pressure or judgment. I’ll ask thoughtful questions to better understand your experiences, values, and goals, and we’ll move at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

​

I also support neurodivergent clients, including those navigating ADHD, autism, sensory sensitivities, and the challenges of fitting into systems that may not reflect their needs. As a former teacher, I bring both practical experience and a clinical lens to this work. My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and affirming, with a focus on helping you better understand yourself, regulate emotions, and find coping strategies that are sustainable and meaningful in your day-to-day life.

​

My approach is integrative and trauma-informed, drawing from CBT, solution-focused, person-centered, and narrative therapies. I adapt sessions to fit your needs—whether that includes breaking things down into manageable steps, using clear and direct communication, or incorporating your interests and strengths into the process.

​

In our work together, I may use techniques like reframing, reflecting meaning, and exploring emotions more deeply. Through both open and focused questions, we’ll look beyond the surface to better understand patterns, beliefs, and experiences that shape how you relate to yourself and others.

​

My background as a former special education teacher, along with my experience as a first-generation American, informs my interest in working with people navigating identity, belonging, cultural adjustment, and life stressors. I support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, overwhelm, OCD tendencies, mood changes, and more. My work is grounded in developmental and attachment-focused perspectives, and I value collaboration with your broader support system when it feels helpful.

​

I offer therapy in both English and Spanish and approach my work with cultural humility. I pay close attention to how identity, culture, family, and life experiences shape emotional well-being. If you’ve ever felt caught between expectations, roles, or cultures, we can make space for that here—while also identifying sources of strength and grounding.

​

In sessions, I aim to be warm, attentive, and steady. I care about creating an environment where you feel supported and not rushed. At times, I may bring in lightness or humor, when it feels appropriate, but always with care for your emotional safety. You’re welcome to bring whatever you’re holding—stress, sadness, uncertainty—and we’ll work through it together.

​

My style is flexible and client-centered. Some sessions may be more structured and skill-focused, while others are more reflective and open. I see adaptability as an important part of growth, and I’ll meet you where you are while supporting you in moving toward where you want to be.

​

I also believe therapy doesn’t have to start at a breaking point to be meaningful. It can be a space for ongoing support, self-reflection, and growth. Together, we can focus not only on challenges, but also on your strengths—helping you build a more balanced, sustainable, and compassionate relationship with yourself.

​

I am pursing my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Marymount Unversity. I provide mental health diagnosis, assessment and treatment under clinical supervision