Gisela Batres

Hello! My name is Gisela Batres and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of working in numerous settings such as medical/hospital, community-based programs, schools, and working with individuals/families. I'm a bilingual Spanish-speaking and bicultural therapist that is passionate about helping individuals in reaching their full potential in life and becoming a better version of themselves. I provide an individualized approach based on the client's presenting needs while identifying their strengths.

My approach

My theoretical approaches are client-centered rooted in a humanistic strength-based approach and have a trauma-sensitive lens. I incorporate CBT, IPT, DBT, ACT, Gottman (Level 1), and trauma-informed when working with clients.

My focus

I work predominantly with adult clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, role transition, family conflict, grief and loss, attachment issues, emotional abuse, codependency, domestic abuse, abandonment, guilt, immigration, and perinatal/postpartum (depression/anxiety).

My communication style

My communication style is calm, supportive inviting, safe, compassionate, curious, warm, and creating an environment of trust so my clients can explore and process the wounded parts of themselves as therapy can be the first step to healing. As we work together, I will address your needs and support your goals in therapy.

My journey to mental healthcare

As a Latina (daughter of immigrant parents), I know first-hand the unique stressors that the Latinx community face as they navigate the challenges of living and working in communities that have been embedded in systemic oppression. I enjoy working with clients and can't help but notice their progress through therapy as they become a better version of themselves. I became a therapist to help others who often struggle with expressing their needs and often feel alone when seeking help.

My goals for you

I work with clients to discover how their family-of-origin issues show up in their current life and the impact these issues have had on them so that they can stop unhealthy patterns in their life and create awareness of how their choices are impacting them. My approach is genuine and relational with my clients as it is my honor to support them in their journey to finding satisfaction in life. I also incorporate psychoeducation, grounding techniques, mindfulness, and somatic experience practices that can serve as a resource to help my client navigate through their healing process with an understanding of what is happening and practical tools on how to cope when triggered. Furthermore, together we will explore to identify stressors and make healthier lifelong changes for a fulfilling satisfying life.

My first session with you

During our first session, my client should expect the opportunity to feel heard, express their needs, and discuss immediate challenges that are causing distress and seek to overcome them in a safe and therapeutic setting. We will spend time exploring current stressors and the impact it has had overtime, including where client would like to start in therapy.