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Greetings! My name is Charles Vela, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor here in the state of Texas. It has been my life’s passion to support and encourage individuals in living their fullest life and healing from past trauma. I received my undergraduate degree in philosophy and psychology at the University of Texas-Austin and went on to my graduate studies at UTRGV.
My approach
I am an eclectic therapist who takes from different theories and methods in the realm of counseling psychology, like trauma-informed perspectives and mindfulness-focused interventions. I am also a certified Dialectical Behavioral Therapist. I am presently being recertified as a Clinical Trauma Professional. Together we can begin this journey!
My focus
A lot of my training and focus revolves around client-centered approaches... that means meeting clients where they are at and practicing unconditional positive regard. I typically work with clients who have anxiety-based symptoms and a lot of my focus is on healing trauma with real world interventions based in mindfulness training.
My communication style
Virtually speaking, the environment is peaceful and calm. I am going to always be as supportive as I can, and will often challenge clients so that they can become mindful of their behaviors and energy. Psychotherapy is often not a cakewalk, but it can lead to a fuller understanding of oneself, and the possible benefit of that is incalculable.
My journey to mental healthcare
I am what you call a wounded healer. Coping with my past experiences and trauma has led me to a life of striving to heal myself and others. I am walking the path with you... I am just now mindful of the techniques and interventions that will lead to a life of wholeness and better health. I often say, I did not choose counseling, nor did I seek it out... it found me. And ever since I started the journey, I knew it would be my life's work to help others heal, grow, and prosper.
My goals for you
Often what I do is have a session in the first phase of treatment dedicated solely to figuring out what clients want to get out of therapy and explore with the client the changes they would like to see in their lives. I keep track of these goals as we walk the path and revise accordingly.
My first session with you
The initial session is needed for the clinician so we can learn more about the client's experiential experience of their world and to gain info to form a case conceptualization. I often hear from clients that it is challenging to tell their story over and over again. But for me, it is a joy to know and learn about you, so hopefully the initial session will be more like a conversation... with a purpose... and not just a time set aside to document information. You are a microcosm of experience and emotions... that cannot be summed up in any document.
