Hi, my name is Jose

It's nice to meet you. 

Here's more information about who I am to help you decide whether I am someone you would like to work with.  

I am the son of immigrants and was raised in San Francisco.  Values passed down from my family were to work hard and to keep pressing on even when I am tired.  I learned that responsibility was upmost important and there was no time to take care of myself.  I was unhappy and needed to learn to allow myself to stop and rest before moving forward; that caring for myself actually helps me accomplish my goals in a much more satisfying manner.  

I am also a gay, Nicaraguan-American male. Being bi-cultural has been a challenge in that for a long period of time I didn't feel like I belonged to any group. It was hard to relate to people.  Growing up gay in a Latino household also complicated matters. Homosexuality was and continues to be negatively portrayed in Latino culture, therefore, representations of a healthy, gay, Latino male were not available. These cultural elements caused confusion as to my identity. 

It took time to work out who I am and who I want to be.  To look at all the values that I was given, and decide what kind of person, what kind of life I want to lead. Making an effort at living that life, being that person, was liberating. 

That's what psychology taught me. It helped me recognize and accept all parts of myself - the good and the bad. I learned that I could change the things that did not sit well with me and acknowledge and appreciate the parts that gave me life and strength. 

I've been practicing psychology for more than 10 years, and have provided therapy to a broad spectrum of adults and adolescents facing multiple stressors. I truly enjoy moments when people I work with begin to show themselves compassion and understanding.  It allows them to steadily make the changes that they are seeking. It's amazing to watch people thrive.

I want to help you begin your journey too. 

Give me a call or click here to set up our first 30 minute free consultation.

Look forward to hearing from you,

Trainings Certifications

EMDR Basic Level Training Certified Hakomi Therapist

Hakomi Pro Skills Training Level 1

Hakomi Couples Training 

Sensorimotor Level 1 Training

Gottmann Method Couples Therapy Level 1

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, U.C. Bekerley, CA

Masters of Science in Clinical Psychology, San Francisco State University, CA

California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist: MFC 50939