Problem: There may be individuals who are skeptical about therapy or hold different cultural beliefs surrounding mental health. Coming from a Hispanic background, I’ve personally experienced this hesitation within my own family. For many, this may be their first time seeking therapy, and trusting someone new can feel uncomfortable or even unsafe. Opening up to a stranger and being vulnerable doesn’t come easily.

Solution: I want to be that person who is patient and creates a nurturing, holistic environment. Practicing cultural humility is very important to me. I understand that I may not fully grasp my client’s lived experience, but I can create a safe space where they can guide me through their worldview — one built on trust, confidentiality, and without judgment.

Experience:

Araceli Gabriel is an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, bilingual in Spanish, who earned her Master of Science in Counseling from Sacramento State University. Over the past two years, she has worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults in school settings, supporting and assessing clients experiencing depression, grief and loss, anxiety, anger, and trauma. In school settings, she has also led groups focused on grief and loss, as well as individuals who are newcomers to this country. She has also volunteered at a Sacramento Juvenile Detention Facility, providing mentorship and resources to young adolescents and young adults who are underrepresented and marginalized.

Client Focus: Families, individuals, children 

Types of therapy: CBT, Gestalt Therapy, Mindfulness, Person-Centered Therapy, Choice-Theory

Issues: 

Standard: Anxiety, depression, trauma

Specialties:  Parenting Issues, Grief and Loss, Relationships