We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Dulce Figueroa. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Dulce below.

Dulce, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?

I would probably call this moment a grounding moment during my career as a mental health professional. Hearing a client share the level of comfort and trust we have established in the therapy space reminded me about how important it is to continue to foster a safe space, even when clients already feel safe. My client is a long term client and knowing that I still provide the same level of comfort in our sessions is a meaningful reminder of the stability and support I strive to offer in every session.

Dulce, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I got into the field of counseling in the year 2019. I was working in the education field while I finished my undergraduate studies. I noticed a huge need for mental health services in the school setting with teachers, students, and parents. That same year, I applied for my Master’s degree as I became increasingly interested in making a change in people’s lives. My experience working at the school helped me understand how stress can impact teachers and staff. Therefore, working with teachers and school staff continues to be something I enjoy in my current field.

I graduated with my Master’s in clinical mental health counseling in 2021. Since then, I provide mental health services to children, teens, and adults. Some of the issues I work with include immigration-related issues, first-gen issues, inner child work, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and more. I am also proud to offer mental health services in Spanish, as well as mental health evaluations for immigration cases.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

I believe building a strong connection with clients is fundamental to the therapeutic process. Establishing a warm and safe environment from the very first interaction sets the foundation for trust, openness, and meaningful engagement.
Clients need to feel heard, understood, and validated which helps foster a sense of security that encourages them to share their thoughts and emotions more freely. Clients often share thoughts, feelings, and experiences they have never shared with others before. I often find myself saying, “All emotions are welcome” to help clients sit with and process their experience in a safe space. Therefore, trust and having strong rapport with clients is as important as training in the field.

Some clients who have never been to therapy before may present with lots of questions, uncertainty, and stigma surrounding mental health and the therapy process. I always strive to validate all of these concerns from the beginning and ensure that I meet clients exactly where they are.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

Absolutely! Choosing to become a therapist has been one of the most fulfilling decisions of my life, and I wouldn’t hesitate to make the same choice again. From the very beginning, one of my driving forces has been the desire to help eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly within the Latinx community. Growing up, I witnessed how deeply entrenched this stigma can be and how it often prevents individuals from seeking support. There’s a saying in our culture, “dirty clothes is washed at home,” which reflects the reluctance to discuss challenges or seek help outside the family. This understanding shaped my commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment where clients feel comfortable taking that first, often vulnerable step—be it scheduling a phone consultation or attending an initial session.

Another passion of mine is working closely with immigrant populations, Through my specialty in conducting immigration evaluations, I’ve had the opportunity to support individuals navigating these complex journeys. Growing up as the daughter of immigrant parents, I witnessed firsthand the resilience and strength required to navigate new environments while facing cultural, linguistic, and systemic barriers. This work is not only professionally rewarding but deeply meaningful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ajanatherapy.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terapia.con.dulce/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ajanatherapy/?comment_id=Y29tbWVudDo3Mzc3ODk3MjY4NzE0MjJfNzM3ODU5MDAzNTMxMTYx
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dulce-figueroa-a6767621a/