Jose Rodriguez Licensed Master Social Worker, SIFI

For clients facing cultural and systemic oppression, I approach therapy through a psychodynamic lens, recognizing the profound impact of societal structures and historical narratives on individual well-being. Oppression is not just an external force; it becomes internalized, shaping self-perception, relationships, and emotional health. My role is to help clients unravel these deeply embedded layers of experience, which manifest as anxiety, depression, identity struggles, or self-worth issues.

With relationship issues, I take a psychodynamic approach that centers on unpacking emotions, finding the right language to express them, and fostering new forms of emotional communication. Relationships are complex, often reflecting deeper emotional dynamics formed early in life. Many relationship conflicts stem from unresolved feelings, unconscious patterns, and unmet emotional needs. My approach is to help clients explore underlying emotional currents, leading to a deeper understanding.

With relationship issues, I take a psychodynamic approach that centers on unpacking emotions, finding the right language to express them, and fostering new forms of emotional communication. Relationships are complex, often reflecting deeper emotional dynamics formed early in life. Many relationship conflicts stem from unresolved feelings, unconscious patterns, and unmet emotional needs. My approach is to help clients explore underlying emotional currents, leading to a deeper understanding.

For clients dealing with self-esteem issues, I take a psychodynamic approach that focuses on uncovering the unconscious roots of negative self-perception and fostering a healthier, more integrated sense of self. Self-esteem challenges often stem from early life experiences, where critical voices or unmet emotional needs shape how individuals view their worth. These unconscious patterns can persist into adulthood, manifesting as feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and self-criticism.

Solution-focused brief Therapy (SFBT) is rooted in the belief that individuals are capable of identifying their own strengths and resources to create meaningful change. SFBT is a goal-oriented, future-focused therapeutic approach that emphasizes solutions rather than dwelling on problems. Instead of analyzing past issues or exploring long-standing emotional difficulties, I guide clients in focusing on their desired outcomes and the steps needed to achieve them.

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is centered on empowering clients to explore and resolve their ambivalence about change. MI is a collaborative, client-centered approach that seeks to enhance motivation by eliciting and strengthening the client’s own reasons for change, rather than imposing external solutions. In sessions, I foster a nonjudgmental, empathetic environment where you feel safe to discuss your challenges and goals.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on helping clients understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and how these can contribute to patterns of distress. In CBT, we work collaboratively to identify negative or unhelpful thought patterns that may be driving emotional difficulties or problematic behaviors. Through structured techniques such as cognitive reframing and behavioral experiments, I guide clients in challenging and changing these thoughts.