Today we’d like to introduce you to Dariela Vasquez.

Hi Dariela, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

My story begins as a first-generation Dominican, where I was raised in a community deeply rooted in faith and service. At 14, I began working at a community center, and this experience truly opened my eyes to the power of service. While I had known service through the lens of church, working directly in the community grounded my understanding and inspired me to pursue a career in helping others. I was determined to work with people in meaningful ways, and so I read everything I could to educate myself about becoming a therapist.
It hasn’t been an easy journey. I had to teach myself and guide myself, often without knowing exactly what I was doing. When I was 16, my brother passed away, which profoundly changed my life and my family’s. Grief became a constant presence in our lives, and I recognized that this grief was not only personal but generational. His death pushed me to take up more space, both physically and emotionally, and to step into a version of myself that I needed to become in order to support myself and my family.
That experience shaped my desire to become a therapist. I understood firsthand how grief impacts individuals and families, and I knew that I wanted to help others navigate their pain. I also felt a deep calling to address generational trauma, and that led me to specialize in somatic psychotherapy. Today, I work with individuals—especially women of color—helping them heal from childhood and generational trauma. My journey has been one of growth, resilience, and a deep commitment to service, and I am grateful for every step that brought me to where I am today.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?

The road has definitely not been smooth. In my 20s, I was constantly on the go, trying to navigate a world that often felt like it was moving faster than I could keep up with. I had to learn how to navigate so many systems on my own, and that required making big decisions without the support I needed. I often found myself making choices that were different from those of my family, which took a toll on me and strained my relationships.

I had to build a lot of inner strength just to keep going. There were many moments when it felt like too much, and at times, I still struggle. But I’ve learned that, despite the difficulties, I am capable and resilient. These challenges have shaped me into the person I am today. As a woman of color navigating these systems, it’s been especially hard. I’ve had to carve out my own path in spaces that weren’t designed for people like me, but each challenge has only deepened my understanding of my own strength and ability to overcome.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?

My practice, Planting Seeds LCSW PLLC, is centered around nurturing deep, transformative healing for women of color. I specialize in somatic psychotherapy, which means I work with the body and mind to address childhood and generational trauma. I’m passionate about helping clients reconnect with themselves, heal from past wounds, and cultivate a sense of wholeness and empowerment. What sets my practice apart is the deep focus on cultural sensitivity and understanding. As a first-generation Dominican woman, I know firsthand the unique struggles women of color face, and I bring that experience into my work.
I am proud that my practice is a space where clients can show up as their whole selves—no masks, no pretenses—and feel seen, heard, and supported. I am known for creating a safe, nurturing, and grounded environment where healing can take place at a deep level. I want readers to know that Planting Seeds LCSW PLLC is a space for growth, renewal, and transformation. My work is rooted in the belief that healing is possible and can be a life-changing journey leading to greater peace, clarity, and alignment. Whether through one-on-one therapy or community support, my services are dedicated to empowering women of color to heal and thrive.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?

For those just starting, my advice is to trust yourself and embrace the journey, even when it feels uncertain. The road ahead might not always be clear, but every step you take—no matter how small—adds to your growth. When starting, I often felt like I was learning everything on my own, and that’s a tough place to be. But now, I realize that the challenges and the moments of uncertainty are part of the process. They shape you into the person you need to become.

I wish I had known the importance of creating a solid support system when I was starting. Whether it’s mentors, peers, or people who understand and uplift you, having that network makes a huge difference. I also wish I had understood earlier that taking things slow and letting your journey unfold at its own pace is okay. There’s no need to rush; evolving as you go is OK.

Lastly, remember that your unique perspective—especially as a woman of color—is an asset. Your wisdom and experiences will guide your work, and it’s vital to honor that. Be patient with yourself, stay connected to your purpose, and remember that you can create the impact you envision.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://darielavasquez.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladarielavasquez/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/plantingseedsofhealingllc