Meet Doris
(she, her, hers)
Doris is a Latina Deaf licensed professional counselor and proud first-generation daughter of immigrant parents from Mexico and El Salvador. Her interest in the counseling field was ignited by the invaluable support and guidance she received from a nurturing academic advisor during a challenging first year of college. This personal experience motivated her to become a therapist who offers her clients the same level of compassion, empathy, and validation she felt fortunate enough to receive.
As your therapist, Doris collaborates with you to create a sanctuary where you can freely express your thoughts, emotions, and personal challenges.
Doris highly values the importance of recognizing intersectionality, diverse cultural backgrounds, identities, and life experiences. She understands the significance of addressing racial trauma and incorporates trauma-informed practices in her therapy with you. Doris recognizes and aims to address the specific challenges that individuals face due to the profound adverse impact of systemic racism and discrimination on their mental health.
Doris doesn’t believe in being a blank slate therapist. Instead, she values authenticity and believes that therapy is most effective when both therapist and client bring their genuine selves. She understands that being authentic enriches the therapeutic collaboration, fostering a deeper connection with her clients. Through her own authenticity, she encourages her clients to do the same, cultivating an atmosphere that fosters openness, trust, and respect.
Doris fully embraces the sentiment expressed by Peter McWilliams in his quote, "Be comfortable with being uncomfortable." She believes that challenges and discomfort are essential for fostering inner growth and uncovering healthier pathways in life. In therapy, Doris is not hesitant to gently challenge you when needed. She approaches the delving into uncomfortable topics with sensitivity while also being mindful of your unique life experiences. She encourages you to confront discomfort head-on as you progress toward your goals, providing unwavering support every step of the way.
Doris poses thought-provoking questions to build self-awareness, deepen your understanding of your struggles, and help you identify areas where change is necessary. Through your partnership with Doris, you'll navigate the ups and downs of your journey, creating a space for exploration, reflection, and growth.
She encourages: “Are you ready to take the next step? Let’s go!”
Doris is currently accepting clients from District of Columbia (DC), Maryland, and Virginia.
EXPERIENCE
Throughout Doris’ 15-year tenure in the mental health field, she has cultivated a diverse skill set in promoting individuals' overall well-being. Her journey began at the Lexington Mental Health Center for the Deaf in New York City, where she served as a mental health therapist from 2008 to 2010. During her time there, she provided counseling services to both the Deaf and BIPOC communities.
Doris has been a part of the Counseling and Psychology Services (CAPS) at Gallaudet University since 2011. Initially serving as a counselor and Coordinator of Services, she later transitioned into the role of Assistant Director of CAPS, a position she has held for the past four years. In this capacity, her focus has been on providing services to Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Students of Color college students.
Doris’ responsibilities extended beyond individual counseling sessions. She played a vital role in supervising interns and staff working towards licensure hours, ensuring they received the comprehensive guidance and mentorship needed. Doris has also been actively involved in outreach services, delivering presentations and training sessions to promote mental health awareness and support within the community.
SPECIALTIES
Doris takes an eclectic approach to therapy, incorporating elements from Reality Therapy, psychoeducation, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She customizes her treatment methods to align with the unique needs and objectives of each individual client. Additionally, she prioritizes recognizing intersectionality in her practice, valuing the significance of considering diverse cultural backgrounds, identities, and life experiences in the therapeutic journey.
EDUCATION
- Master of Arts, Mental Health Counseling, Gallaudet University, District of Columbia (2008)
- Bachelor of Science, Family and Children Studies, Gallaudet University, District of Columbia (2006)
