Amie Ortiz

As a Bilingual first-generation American growing up in New York, I have come face to face with many individuals from all walks of life. I have worked in schools, community parks, hospitals, and essentially wherever the need was. I have had the privilege of being a part of individuals' hopes, dreams, frustrations, happiness, and their life. I learned a great deal about how to connect with others in a way that was meaningful to them. I want to understand and help you work through any events or concerns that have caused you to seek out therapy. Whether you are struggling with feeling anxious, not wanting to get out of bed or do the things that you used to enjoy, or have experienced a loss. Together we can identify what you need in order to live a more fulfilled life.

My approach

It is my belief that safety, trust, and the space for change can occur within the relationship between the client and the therapist. I have worked with clients using a variety of treatment methods. Some of the treatment methods I have used are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and relational therapy. Every client is different and what works for you may not work for the next person. I make it my goal to figure out what works best for you. I also like to use a hands-on approach in my sessions so I have utilized art, music, fitness, and play therapy in my sessions as needed based on my client.

My focus

I would describe my ideal client as someone who is prepared to take the first step towards helping themselves lead a more authentic life by coming to counseling since it can be a scary process to open up to someone. A person who is motivated and wants to work with me toward identifying their concerns and how they can improve or manage these concerns in a healthier way. Someone who is willing to challenge themselves by facing concerns and discussing them.

My communication style

My communication style is assertive. I communicate with my clients in a way that allows them to feel listened to and respected during our sessions.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey toward becoming a counselor started when I was much younger. I am the oldest of four and my younger brother was diagnosed with Autism at a young age. Due to this, I have always been fascinated by the mind and what makes people react or respond the way that they do. This is what led me to always have an interest in Psychology. I minored in Psychology in my undergraduate program and completed my Master of Science in Counseling Psychology in 2016. I have also received training in trauma work, play therapy, and hypnotherapy. Psychology has always been a passion of mine.

My goals for you

The therapeutic goal that I have for my client is to help them achieve whatever goals they present when they first arrive at therapy. It is my job to create a space that allows the client to identify how they want to better manage their concerns. I walk alongside my clients to help them achieve their specified goals. For me successful care is the client feeling safe enough to be consistent with therapy and continue to process/ manage the concerns that brought them to counseling.

My first session with you

Through my personal experiences with counseling, I have learned the importance of establishing trust in my sessions. I approach my sessions with the understanding that every individual’s story is unique. This means that my clients can expect me to be invested in getting to know their stories. In getting to know what is going on for them and what is making things unmanageable at the moment. It is my belief that the client-therapist relationship can foster safety, trust, and the space for change.