What brought you to this page? Are you curious about counseling? Are you feeling desperate to find some relief in your current situation? Are you feeling like no one else understands what you’re going through and you don’t want to burden others? Whatever your reason, I’m glad you’re here.

I believe the counseling space, whether in an office or over a virtual platform, should be one that provides safety to explore the areas of life we may feel too fragile to peek into, freedom to dream of new possibilities, and courage to turn those dreams into reality as we write the remainder of our story. My role as a counselor is to provide understanding and hope and to give you permission to do just that.

I was born in Cuba, moved throughout the U.S., until landing in Texas during my adolescent years, undergoing many cultural and life transitions. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and with a minor in Religious Studies from Texas A&M University, and my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. I am married and have two boys. My family and I love the outdoors, diving into different cultural experiences, and being involved with our spiritual community.

I have worked with a number of clients ranging from different ages and walks of life. I believe counseling should be approached through a multicultural lens, providing a safe space to listen, understand, and learn about the client’s life, concerns, and goals. The therapeutic relationship should provide authentic care for the client to grow and heal at their pace. My therapeutic approach to working with clients is largely dependent on the client’s needs. However, I pull from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help identify and replace unhelpful patterns of thinking, feelings, and behaviors with healthy ones. I also pull from narrative therapy (NT) to help clients explore, embrace, and rewrite their own stories as they find meaning and make sense of themselves, others, and the world. I’m also a big believer in expressive and creative arts that help us connect with different parts of ourselves to gain greater insight into ourselves or situations, while having fun.

Human beings are complex and beautiful creatures made up of stories, values, strengths, fears, struggles, beliefs, and dreams. And it would be my delight to hear your story, journey with you, and empower you to confidently take what you discover in our time together with you wherever you go. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and ask any questions you may have.

Specialties:
anxiety, depression, anger, relational concerns, life transitions, grief and loss, spiritual concerns, identity development, behavioral concerns, cultural issues, recovery from trauma, parenting support, Spanish/bilingual speakers

Client Focus:
Children, Adolescents, Adults, Families, College Students, Couples

Degree/s:
M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling
B.A., Psychology and minor in Religious Studies from Texas A&M University

Additional Certifications:
Trauma Focused-CBT

Business email:
JessRios@oakwoodcounseling.com