Jackie is a psychotherapist at Wildflower. In her clinical practice, Jackie draws on Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Jackie works with adults and families experiencing stressful transitions including the transition to parenthood, anxiety, mood disorders, birth trauma, sexual challenges, and relationship issues. Jackie has experience in addressing postpartum depression and anxiety, birth trauma, Hispanic/ Latinx mental health, and self esteem. She obtained her master’s degree at University of Illinois at Chicago in Social Work and Public Health. Read Jackie’s full bio here.
What inspired you to pursue a career as a psychotherapist?
I began my career as a social worker in a NICU working directly with families while their little ones were getting better. I found it deeply rewarding to build genuine connections and offer emotional support for families. I saw how important knowledge about perinatal mental health is when supporting families in such a vulnerable place. I always stressed the importance of caring for oneself to patients and families, and I decided that I wanted to be a part of the healing process in another way. I have personally found navigating mental health care challenging due to lack of representation and I am always incorporating cultural adaptations of clinical interventions.
As a psychotherapist, what part of your job is most satisfying?
I recently heard therapy described as a “mix of art and science” and I couldn’t agree more! My favorite part of my job is balancing the therapeutic approach, means of communication and building connections with types of therapy, best practices, and continued education in order to best serve my clients.
How would you describe your therapeutic approach?
My approach is warm, friendly, and collaborative. I like to keep my client’s informed about which approaches I am taking and I like to hear client feedback on what is working best for them. I believe in the power within our self beliefs, and often find myself working on ways in which to challenge some and strengthen others.
Why do you believe that psychotherapy can help?
I believe healing is possible for everyone. There is a therapist out there who could be a great fit and it is important to feel comfortable with your clinician. I think it is important to have a space where a client feels seen, heard, and respected in order to first plant the seeds of growth.
What are some of your specialties and what drew you to them?
I work with clients who have birth related concerns or are parenting little ones with complex medical needs. Often, many feel that their birth experience “doesn’t matter” once a baby is born. That is far from the truth, and I find it very important to balance all feelings related to birth. I also am undergoing training in EMDR, which focuses on changing emotions, thoughts, and behavior from distressing memories or experiences. I identify as a Latina woman and I love working with my fellow gente. I have personally found navigating mental health care challenging due to lack of representation and I am always incorporating cultural adaptations of clinical interventions.
What is one thing about psychotherapy you wish everyone knew?
It should be tailored to you, the client! Your therapist wants to hear from you: what you think, how you are feeling, and what feels best in therapy. It may feel awkward or intimidating at first, but every therapist should strive to create a welcoming and balanced environment.
What is your motto or personal mantra?
“Two things can be true at once”. Life is so complex and it is so important to let yourself feel emotions, even when they seem counterintuitive to how you want to feel.
What are your favorite self-care activities?
I enjoy yoga, biking around Chicago, thrift shopping, and spending time with my dog.
