A place to work through what matters
People begin therapy for different reasons. You may be feeling depressed or anxious, struggling with a relationship, or finding that the same difficulties recur despite your efforts. You may be functioning well outwardly while feeling disconnected, overly self-critical, or uncertain about your direction.
In this practice, psychotherapy is an ongoing conversation with Dr. Figueroa. The work is shaped by your concerns and goals, with attention to both the problems you want help with and the patterns that may be contributing to them.
Several ways of understanding the same person
The approach draws on psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral techniques, and mindfulness. These offer different ways to examine experience: the meanings and recurring patterns in your life, the thoughts and actions shaping a current difficulty, and how you notice and respond to your emotions.
Sessions may involve examining a recent interaction, questioning a harsh assumption about yourself, or exploring how earlier experiences influence your expectations today. The choice of approach depends on what we are trying to understand and address.
What collaboration looks like
You bring your experience of your life. Dr. Figueroa brings clinical training, questions, and a perspective that develops as he gets to know you. There is room to disagree, to say that an interpretation does not fit, and to discuss what is or is not helping.
The beginning of treatment includes deciding what to focus on and discussing the frequency and length of appointments. Those decisions can be revisited as your needs and goals become clearer.
Medication when it belongs in the plan
Working with a psychiatrist means medication can be considered within the same therapeutic relationship. It is not an automatic part of psychotherapy. If it is recommended, the discussion includes why, what changes to look for, possible disadvantages, and alternatives.
The National Institute of Mental Health describes psychotherapy as an option used either on its own or alongside medication, depending on the person’s needs and medical situation.
Questions about this care
Do I have to know which type of therapy I want?
No. You can begin by describing your concerns. The consultation is an opportunity to discuss which approaches may fit and why.
Will I meet with Dr. Figueroa himself?
Yes. Dr. Figueroa personally provides psychotherapy in this private practice.
Can I discuss whether therapy is helping?
Yes. Your experience of the treatment is an important part of the work, including questions about progress, goals, or fit.
Further reading
National Institute of Mental Health: Psychotherapies
General educational information; personal treatment decisions belong in an individual consultation.