CLINICAL BACKGROUND

Brenda Gándara, PHD

During my doctoral studies at Texas A&M University, I focused heavily on multicultural psychology. My internship was completed at a veterans' hospital in Puerto Rico in which I learned how to integrate the mind and body in all clinical interventions. My training includes, but it is not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), existential-humanistic, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), shadow work, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), hypnosis, seeking safety, interpersonal therapy, reality therapy, and somatic approaches responsive to our sociopolitical and historical context. Investing time and resources in learning non-western healing practices is also an ongoing commitment.

As part of my research, I have explored empathy and self-compassion among novice therapists, as well as cultural elements such Marianismo among Latina students' academic achievement.

All this training and 12-plus years of experience as a psychologist have prepared me to work with individuals to help them connect with their inherent wisdom. This training can enable people to change deeply, and not only their symptoms. The process is similar to an excavation, where we have to dig down to the foundation to really transform the structure of the building, instead of just applying a fresh coat of paint to the walls.

PRESENTATIONS

Child Guidance Center

Seneca Family Center

Orange County Health Psychologists

Arkansas University Counseling Center

Latinx Therapists Action Network

Orange County Psychological Association and many more!