Psychological therapy, also known as psychotherapy or counseling, is a collaborative process that involves working with a trained professional to explore, understand, and manage various aspects of your life. It provides a space to express your thoughts, feelings, and concerns and to develop effective strategies for navigating life's challenges.
Our therapy sessions are tailored to your individual or family needs, whether you're facing specific difficulties, seeking personal development, or aiming to enhance overall well-being. Through evidence-based approaches and personalized treatment, we empower you to build resilience, overcome obstacles, and reach your goals.
At our center, we offer a range of psychological therapy options to meet your individual needs and those of your family. We provide child and adolescent psychological therapy, specifically designed for children and teenagers facing emotional, behavioral, or developmental challenges. We also offer adult and family therapy, aimed at individuals and families seeking to overcome obstacles in various aspects of their lives. You can click the following links to find more detailed information about the type of therapy you're interested in.
Our highly trained therapists are here to support you on your journey towards well-being and personal growth. Feel free to explore more details about each option and how they can benefit you. We are here to accompany you every step of the way.
child and adolescent therapy and family therapY
There is no other stage in people's lives where as many changes are experienced as in childhood and adolescence. Following the principles of developmental psychology, we focus on the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development of children and adolescents, providing comprehensive support for them to adapt and thrive in their environment.
Our approach to child and adolescent therapy involves working both individually with young individuals and in collaboration with their key influencers, such as parents and teachers. We maintain constant communication and hold frequent meetings to provide guidelines and guidance that support their growth.
Using techniques tailored to their development, we aim to strengthen coping skills, promote emotional well-being, and facilitate positive personal growth. This therapy plays a crucial role in early detection and addressing difficulties, allowing young individuals to overcome obstacles and establish strong foundations for lifelong well-being.
We work closely with parents, guiding them to understand the needs of their children and providing tools to foster effective communication and mutual support. Together, we strengthen family bonds and create an environment conducive to the well-being and healthy development of young individuals.
In cases where academic performance is being affected, in addition to working directly with young individuals and their parents, we collaborate closely with teachers and tutors to provide holistic and consistent support in their development. By offering guidance and strategies to educators, we aim to create a school environment that supports their emotional, social, and academic needs. This collaboration between the center, the family, and the educational environment ensures comprehensive and effective care, enabling children and adolescents to achieve greater well-being and positive growth in all areas of their lives.
How do I know if I need to take my child to a psychologist?
Recognizing when it's the right time to seek the help of a psychologist for your child is crucial for their emotional well-being and development. Childhood and adolescence are stages of development filled with changes and challenges. At times, children and adolescents may face emotional and behavioral difficulties that require the attention and support of a psychology professional. Some of these difficulties include:
1. Behavioral Issues: Challenging behavior, tantrums, aggression, opposition with family members and peers, disobedience, delinquent behavior, difficulty assuming responsibilities, etc.
2. Sleeping Disorders: Trouble sleeping, nightmares, and fear of sleeping alone.
3. Eating and Body Image Disorders: Obesity, anorexia, refusal to eat certain foods, concerning eating patterns (lack of control, restriction, overeating, obsession with healthy eating, consumption of non-food substances like dirt or paper), excessive concern about weight and body image, excessive exercise, etc.
4. Poor School Performance: Lack of concentration, academic failure, refusal to do schoolwork, school adaptation issues, disinterest in school, difficulty organizing tasks, lack of motivation, negative academic self-esteem, etc.
5. Toilet Training Issues: Problems with daytime and nighttime toilet training.
6. Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Difficulty maintaining attention, impulsivity, and lack of self-control.
7. Fears and Phobias: Specific phobias, separation anxiety, fear of interacting with others, fear of public speaking, fear of confined spaces, etc.
8. Anxiety and Obsessions: Tics, obsessions, panic attacks, regressive/childish behaviors, nervousness, intense worries, excessive tasks and responsibilities that are inappropriate for their age, etc.
9. Emotional Issues: Apathy, lack of enthusiasm, sadness, irritability, frequent crying, sudden mood swings, isolation, changes in sleep or appetite patterns, difficulty managing stress, avoidance of social interactions, outbursts of anger, etc.
10. Self-esteem and Autonomy Issues: Excessive dependence on adults to make decisions and solve problems, lack of confidence in their ability to face challenges and take responsibility, self-criticism and constant comparison, perfectionism, excessive self-demand, hypersensitivity to criticism, fear of failure, self-deprecating thoughts, etc.
11. Social Relationship Difficulties: Lack of social skills, trouble making friends, and shyness.
12. Family Challenges: Recurring conflicts among siblings, communication difficulties with parents, resistance to following family rules, lack of harmony at home, tensions related to parents' separation or divorce, difficulties in setting limits and roles within the family, etc.
13. Grief Processes: Loss of loved ones, changes in residence, and the breakup of significant relationships.
14. Addiction Issues: Problematic substance use, technology and social media addiction.
15. School Bullying: Bullying, cyberbullying, and difficulties in the school environment.
If you suspect that your child is facing any of these difficulties, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our team of professionals specialized in child and adolescent therapy is here to provide the necessary support and help your child overcome these obstacles for healthy emotional and psychological development. Don't hesitate to take the step towards better well-being for your child and your family.
How do we work with children in therapy?
In our approach to child psychology, we understand the importance of creating a safe and engaging space for younger children. We use play therapy, role-playing, creativity, and drawing as natural forms of expression and communication, allowing children to explore their emotions, overcome challenges, and grow in a positive manner.
Additionally, for children who have experienced difficult experiences, we use EMDR therapy. This gentle and effective technique helps children process emotional wounds through bilateral auditory stimulation, promoting significant emotional and cognitive change.
We work closely with parents, providing guidance and support to enhance family communication and understanding. Drawing from attachment theory, we work to strengthen emotional bonds and emotional security between children and their parents or loved ones. We believe that secure attachment is essential for child well-being and use therapeutic strategies that promote improved family bonding, fostering trust, self-esteem, and emotional connection in the child.
In our therapeutic environment, children have fun and look forward to returning. It's a rewarding space where children can learn, grow, and develop essential skills for their emotional and personal well-being.
And with adolescents?
At MS Center for Psychology, our therapy with adolescents focuses on understanding and addressing the unique psychological processes that characterize this stage of life. Our therapeutic approach adapts to the individual needs of each teenager, with the goal of promoting healthy emotional development and facilitating the transition to adulthood.
We collaborate with adolescents to address key areas such as identity and self-exploration, emotional management, autonomy and decision-making, effective communication, relationships and social skills, risk-taking and consequences, moral and ethical development, search for meaning, responsibility and commitment, and life skills.
Additionally, we integrate approaches such as adapted EMDR for adolescents, which helps process traumatic and emotionally charged experiences, and attachment theory, which focuses on building secure and healthy relationships both within the family environment and with peers.
Furthermore, we work with parents to provide them with tools and strategies that allow them to better understand the needs and challenges of their teenager. Through guidance and support, we help parents foster effective communication with their child, establish healthy boundaries, handle conflicts constructively, and strengthen family bonds.
Our therapeutic sessions may include family meetings to discuss relevant issues, explore joint solutions, and set clear goals for the adolescent's development. We also provide practical resources and guidelines for the family to continue supporting the process of growth and change outside of the therapy sessions.
ADULT THERAPY
At MS Centro de Psicología, we believe in the transformative power of therapy for adults – a dedicated space to explore, understand, and overcome the challenges we encounter in our lives.
The journey through adulthood can bring forth a spectrum of emotional, mental, and relational challenges that often appear complex and overwhelming. Our therapeutic approach is meticulously crafted to address a range of situations, spanning from stress and anxiety to depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and past traumas.
Our commitment goes beyond addressing surface-level symptoms; we delve into the underlying roots of these issues. Within this space, you can reflect upon your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while cultivating new perspectives and skills to confront challenges with confidence and resilience.
Guided by our team of highly trained therapists, your journey of self-discovery and growth is our priority. We recognize that each individual is unique, which is why our therapy is tailored to fit your specific needs. By integrating a diverse range of scientifically-backed therapeutic approaches, we collaboratively work to overcome barriers and achieve your personal goals.
Therapy for adults transcends mere temporary solutions – it's an investment in your long-term well-being. We invite you to explore our approach, discover the tools at your disposal, and take the first step towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life. We're here to provide the support and guidance necessary to confront challenges and build a future enriched with possibility.
When to Seek Therapy?
Making the decision to seek psychological help is a significant step towards caring for your emotional well-being and personal growth. Throughout life, we all encounter situations and challenges that can trigger overwhelming emotions or difficulties in how we relate to ourselves and others.
Anything That Makes You Feel Unwell in Your Life is a Valid Reason to Seek Help
Just as seeking a doctor's help when something physically hurts is a natural choice for our physical health, seeking psychological support is equally vital for our emotional well-being. If you're experiencing discomfort, emotional pain, distress, anxiety, or challenges in your life that are affecting you, that's reason enough to consider therapy.
If you're wondering whether it's the right time to consult a psychologist, here are some guidelines that may help you make that decision:
Anxiety and Stress Issues: If you're dealing with constant worry, panic attacks, phobias, difficulty controlling anxiety, or exaggerated reactions to stressful situations – feeling unable to be calm and relaxed – seeking support can help you learn healthier ways to manage these emotions.
Depression and Mood Changes: If you're facing persistent sadness, apathy, lack of interest in activities you used to enjoy, sudden mood swings, or struggling to find joy in life, therapy can help you address these feelings and find ways to regain emotional well-being.
Relationship Challenges: Personal relationship issues, family conflicts, communication difficulties, and negative relationship patterns can impact your quality of life. Therapy can provide tools to enhance your relationships and build healthier connections.
Self-Esteem Issues: If you have a negative self-concept, engage in constant self-criticism, set unrealistically high standards for yourself, lack self-confidence, or constantly compare yourself to others, a therapist can help you work on your self-esteem and develop a more positive self-image.
Ineffective Coping Strategies: If managing stress, intense emotions, or adverse situations feels challenging and your coping mechanisms aren't effective, therapy can provide you with new tools to face challenges with resilience.
Emotional Regulation Problems: If you struggle to manage your emotions in a healthy way, experience emotional instability, sudden shifts in mood, or intense reactions, therapy can help you develop emotional regulation skills and manage your feelings more balancedly.
Grief and Loss: The loss of loved ones or significant life changes can lead to profound grief. A therapist can guide you through the grieving process and help you find ways to heal.
Impulse Control Issues: Compulsive behaviors, addictions, anger management problems, and difficulty resisting impulses can negatively impact your life. Therapy can assist you in developing self-control and strategies to overcome these challenges.
Workplace Stress: Feeling exhausted, dissatisfied at work, struggling to manage work pressures, or facing difficulties in balancing work and personal life – a therapist can help address these concerns and find effective solutions.
Significant Life Changes: Life events like breakups, divorces, job changes, relocations, or retirement can lead to stress and intense emotions. Therapy can provide support during these transitions.
Adaptation Challenges: If you find it hard to adjust to significant life changes such as parenthood, retirement, or loss of roles, a therapist can help you find healthy ways to adapt to these new circumstances.
Eating and Body Image Issues: If you have concerns related to eating, body image, or engage in unhealthy eating behaviors, therapy can provide a space to address these challenges.
Self-Discovery and Personal Growth: If you have the desire to explore your emotions, thought patterns, and behaviors for greater self-understanding and well-being, therapy can be a valuable path to self-discovery.
If you resonate with any of these indicators or face any other emotional, psychological, or relational challenges of any kind, we're here to support you. Our team of highly qualified psychologists at MS Psychology Center is committed to providing you with the necessary support to overcome obstacles, building a path towards greater well-being and satisfaction in your life. Don't hesitate to reach out and take the first step on your journey of personal growth and transformation. We're here for you, every step of the way.
Working with Adults in Therapy
Personalization and Adaptation from a Scientific Perspective
At MS Psychology Center, we understand that each individual is unique, bringing their own history and personal circumstances. Our approach to adult therapy is rooted in empathy, personalization, and collaboration based on the most solid and recent scientific research. We believe that providing a safe and supportive space is essential for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and challenges openly and constructively. Through a trusted therapeutic relationship, we accompany you on your journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
Plurality in Our Approach: Adapting Therapy to You, Not the Other Way Around
Our strength lies in the diversity and expertise in different approaches within our team of therapists. We understand that every individual is unique, which is why we believe in the importance of adapting therapeutic tools to each patient's personality and issues rather than trying to fit patients into predefined approaches. This holistic approach combines techniques from different therapeutic approaches, allowing us to address your specific needs. We recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to emotional and mental challenges, which is why we leverage the rich diversity of our therapists' training. By combining techniques and approaches from various schools of thought, we create a personalized treatment plan that caters to your personality, circumstances, and goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation issues, or relationship difficulties, integrative therapy provides you with a tailored path to well-being.
Tailored Therapeutic Approaches
Our team of highly skilled therapists employs a range of research-backed therapeutic approaches to address your unique needs. Some of the approaches we work with include:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focused on identifying and altering negative thought patterns and unhealthy behaviors that contribute to emotional and behavioral problems. Through CBT, you'll learn skills to manage stress and confront challenges.
- Systemic Family Therapy: If family dynamics affect your emotional well-being, systemic family therapy can be beneficial. We explore family interactions and relationships to understand how they contribute to problems and work towards collaborative solutions.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Ideal for those experiencing difficulties in emotional regulation, impulsivity, and interpersonal relationships. It incorporates mindfulness techniques, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution.
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Centered around accepting thoughts and emotions while committing to actions aligned with personal values. It helps you face challenges flexibly and live a meaningful life.
- Trauma Therapy (including EMDR): If you've experienced traumas, this therapy helps you process and heal from past emotional wounds. EMDR therapy employs bilateral stimulation to reduce the emotional impact of traumatic memories.
- Attachment Theory and Circle of Security: We explore how your early relationship experiences have influenced your current relationship patterns and emotional well-being. We work on building healthy relationships with yourself and others.
Benefits of Our Personalized Approach:
- Unique Adaptation: We personalize therapy to suit your personality and needs, rather than fitting you into a specific approach. Each session and therapeutic strategy are designed with your specific needs in mind. This flexibility, combined with elements from different approaches, adjusts therapy as you progress in your journey of growth and healing.
- Enhanced Effectiveness: By addressing your situation from multiple angles, we increase the likelihood of experiencing deeper and lasting results. For instance, if you're working on emotional regulation, we can combine Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques with elements of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address specific challenges. This multi-faceted approach enhances the effectiveness and relevance of interventions, allowing you to experience more meaningful outcomes.
- Therapist-Patient Connection: At MS Psychology Center, we deeply value the therapist-patient relationship. We understand that authenticity and trust are crucial for a successful therapeutic process. Personalization of therapy not only means adapting therapeutic techniques to you, but also entails your therapist's commitment to understanding you as an individual. This depth of understanding fosters trust, as you feel you're in an environment where your voice is heard, and your experiences are validated. When you feel truly seen and understood, you're more comfortable sharing your most intimate thoughts and emotions. Our focus on personalization and adapting therapy contributes to building an authentic connection that fosters an environment of trust and openness.
- Empowerment: We empower you to lead your own growth process. You're not just a recipient of therapy, but an active participant in your journey towards well-being. We provide you with tools and strategies to become an agent of change in your life. Our approach equips you with practical skills that you can apply in real-life situations. We empower you to build confidence, make informed decisions, and foster lasting growth.
If you're seeking therapy that adapts to you and your specific needs, we're here to accompany you on your journey towards greater well-being and life satisfaction. Contact us to take the first step in your path towards self-discovery and positive change. We're here for you at every stage of the journey.