Meet Our Therapists: Denise Garcia

Name: Denise Garcia
Licensing Info: LMFT-S, LPC
Where you live: Spring, TX
Hometown: The Woodlands, TX
Amount of time working at Talkspace: three months
Time working as a Therapist: 10 years

Why are you working in therapy/mental health?

I was drawn to therapy as listening and being patient and empathetic are natural strengths for me. I was drawn to psychology as well. I enjoy talking with people and learning about people. Therapy is a place where I can utilize these strengths and combine my analytical side with my creative side. I can give to others in this capacity. Helping others is one of my most important values.

What made you start working at Talkspace?

I began working at Talkspace when I found it online and realized it could be a job opportunity where I could reach different populations of clients and use creativity in a different format. I also love the flexibility of it and love that it meets the needs of many people who otherwise would not be able to access therapy.

What has made you feel the most pride in your work?

I feel the most pride in my work when someone has an “aha” moment or a “light bulb” moment. I feel good knowing they had some insight. Although I can not take credit for their insight, I love knowing I have contributed in some way.

I also feel prideful when my clients express they have progressed in ways that make them feel proud. Sometimes openly and sometimes silently, I do the happy dance with my clients.

Can you think of a specific instance or moment that was inspiring?

I am inspired everyday. I am inspired by the client who expresses complete humility and gratitude in every aspect of life despite having every opportunity not to. I am inspired by the client who has severe learning disabilities and has great difficulty expressing himself but has the gift of song where he can express himself whole-heartedly. I am inspired by the clients who get up everyday and do not give up despite everything in their body telling them otherwise. I am inspired by the client who continues to do for others despite not having much for themselves. I could go on and on.

Why is what you do important?

Mental health is so important. Mental health can determine physical health. Mental health is physical health. Sometimes people believe the two are separate, but they are very much the same.

Many times people find their physical health is much more manageable when they are tending to their mental health. Sometimes people do not have a space in their lives where they can be open. Having a safe place can help a person move past hurdles.

If you had one piece of advice for a therapy-seeker, what would it be?

The most important thing in therapy is that you feel comfortable with your therapist. If you do not, communicate that with your therapist. Sometimes there is a way to work through that or find a different style that works better for you so you do not have to start over. The therapist can also assist in transferring you to another therapist who might work better for you.

Therapists want what is best for you and will help you find that in whatever way meets your needs. I know I have a good rapport with my clients when they feel comfortable enough to tell me they do not agree. Then I know they feel comfortable enough to be authentic and that I am doing my job in being able to guide them.

What do you do for fun?

I hang out with my children, husband and friends. We frequently play music, cook, swim and watch movies. I enjoy taking walks and painting as well.

Note: You will need to sign up for Talkspace to continue chatting with Denise or any other Talkspace therapist. Make sure you live in the same state as Denise before you choose her.