We were lucky to catch up with Vivianne Arriola recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Vivianne , thanks for joining us today. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?

After completing my post-doctoral requirements at UF for my licensure, I returned back to work at the private practice on Miami Beach where I initially began my training more than decade before. I stayed in touch with the owner of that practice during my academic and professional development, and we became friends and colleagues throughout the process. He had a very successful private practice for many years, and was getting ready to semi-retire. I ended up taking over that practice along with a fellow colleague that also trained under him. We licensed out the practice for two years, which allowed us both a good amount of time and cushion to get our own businesses off the ground. It was such an amazing opportunity, and being at the right place at the right time was truly kismet. I began rebuilding my name within the community after returning home, and this was the birth of Viva Psychology.

I was ecstatic to be back in Miami with family and good friends. No longer having to work under a supervisor’s license and officially being on my own was incredibly exciting. It was the next chapter for me. There was so much to learn and a plethora of work needed to be done. Time was moving fast. I was non-stop especially because it was my first time starting my own business and operating a private practice. I was blessed to have the previous owner, my friend, teach me everything I needed to know in order to make this a successful venture.

The month finally arrived when I was officially the co-owner of the practice in a new office space overlooking Ocean Drive and the ever so beautiful South Beach. My name was on a plaque outside the elevator and our front door. At that time I really felt like I had finally “arrived” after putting in so much sweat, work, and tears for over the span of 10 years. Five days in and something extremely tragic and devastating occurred. A long-standing client of mine was confirmed dead. They were been brutally murdered. It was a major life defining moment for me, as a therapist and as a human being; one that would indefinitely alter my perception of mental health and safety. The plaque on the door and ocean view didn’t matter anymore. Suddenly, that all became so insignificant to me.

At first, my client didn’t show up to their weekly standing appointment. This client really enjoyed coming to therapy and to see Prince, my very special and adorable Pug. They came on the same day at the same time every week. After our session they would walk down Lincoln Road to go eat and drink at the same restaurant before returning home. They had their routine down, and it was rare for this client to miss a session unless they had another medical appointment, which I usually knew about ahead of time.

A week prior, my client did not show up to our appointment. I contacted them several times and never heard back. It was extremely odd and it felt completely off. After not hearing from them for almost a week, I contacted someone (a friend of theirs) that they listed on their HIPPA release in case of an emergency. After speaking to that friend I mentioned that I wanted to call the police to conduct a wellness check at my client’s home, but the friend said that he would go check on my client right away. I didn’t hear back from that person for the rest of the day. As you can imagine, I felt very anxious and worried, but tried to stay hopeful despite feeling that something was terribly wrong. I just couldn’t explain it. The next morning I contacted my client’s friend only to hear the heartbreaking news.

For obvious reasons, I am unable to give any further details or information. Besides, it only gets worse from here. I will say that it was a very violent death. Nothing can ever prepare you for something this horrifying to happen to someone you know. It was the unimaginable happening in real-time.

What was supposed to be one of the happiest and rewarding moments of my career, a huge milestone in taking over that practice with my colleague, instantly turned into a very confusing time. I was filled with sorrow and fear. I developed acute PTSD, and had almost every symptom possible: check, check, and check. On some days, I didn’t want to return to my office, but I did. I kept showing up because I knew that I had to. I worked so hard to open up my practice, take over the existing practice, and get that new office space ready. At home, I kept checking my locks and felt unsettled. I wasn’t sleeping well and had nightmares. I also was experiencing panic attacks, and my anxiety was through the roof on some days. It all felt so surreal like a terrible nightmare that you couldn’t wake up from.

I contacted my therapist right away asking for help. I vividly remember having a panic attack on her couch one day, and had to lie down and grab the fluffy pillows to help ground me. I was terrified knowing that my client suffered in their last moments, and how another human being could actually do this. You hear about it on the news. You see it on detective shows and in movies, but in real life? This couldn’t possibly happen to anyone I know, or at least you hope. I couldn’t turn on the TV because I was too scared to hear anything about the incident or anything negative in general. It would just re-trigger me. Intellectually, I knew that I was in flight or fight mode, and my central nervous system was on overdrive. I had a small business now, and was responsible for my clients’ well being, my new office, and more importantly my OWN well being. If I’m not okay, how can I be there for anyone else? You have to put on your own oxygen mask first before you put on anyone else’s. I knew I had to dig deep to find a way out and live in peace again.

During that brief time that seemed like an eternity, I realized just how severe and dangerous mental health could be, and the liability associated with my profession. I feel responsible (to an extent) for each and every client of mine that I take under my wing. Before being a therapist, I am a human being. I questioned my industry, and my choice to devote my life’s work to mental health and helping others. The circumstances and nature of the death is what made it extremely terrifying for me. I also wasn’t able to speak about this with my support system due to confidentiality so that added another layer of isolation to my experience. My therapy sessions, faith, and resilience were pivotal in my healing process.

I kept remembering the saying: “God doesn’t give you more than you can handle.” I know that I am a survivor so deep down I knew that this would all come to pass somehow, but I wondered just how long it would take to feel safe again.

I ended up having a spiritual ceremony in the ocean by myself on a beautiful afternoon to honor my client later that month. It was simple, special and very powerful. That same night I was able to finally sleep again without having any nightmares. It was as if my soul was able to let their soul go in peace. Again, surreal. Eventually, I found healing. It was a multidimensional process. PTSD is no joke, and can feel all encompassing, but it CAN be managed with professional help an a good support system. All we need is for one person to be in our corner; to be there for you, or to believe in you. It is all about your community. Whether it’s the family that you’re born into or the one that you create through friends, the workplace, hobbies, or even your therapist.

I’m extremely grateful that I quickly asked for help. I knew that I couldn’t do it alone, nor did I want to. Ultimately, I was able to muscle through, and get back to feeling safe again. I also did not let the practice fall apart after working so hard and for so long to get to that point.

Finding spiritual closure with my client truly graced me with peace of mind. I was very determined to feel safe again in my surroundings, at work, and with the people that I allowed in my circle. After what I had just gone through, there was no room or tolerance for anything less than healthy and mentally stable people in my personal life. I literally felt like a Phoenix rising out of the ashes with a renewed faith in my higher power and for myself. Having experienced something of that nature has made me feel even more committed, capable, and empathic to help others who are also scared or reeling from unresolved trauma. I’m still standing and so will you.

Vivianne , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a licensed psychologist able to provide therapy to those across the state of Florida. Additionally I am certified in Hypnosis and Past Life Regression, and can offer these services to anyone in the country and abroad.

I worked in the community mental health centers for a very long time providing services for the underserved and underprivileged population in Miami and Los Angeles. I received specialized training working with children and adolescents, particularly those families suffering from trauma in early childhood (i.e., abuse, domestic violence, neglect, and the foster care system). I also advocated for children’s educational rights for high-risk youth within the school board system. After working and supervising an ABA clinic for Autistic and special needs children in Miami, I decided to focus mostly on adults. I am still open and willing to take on a child as a new client depending on the parents, their needs, and whether or not I feel it would be a good fit. The main reason being is the burn out rate that is much higher when working with children and families. The other reason is that in order for me to work with a child and family the parents or main caregiver needs to be fully committed with their participation in implementing behavior training and changes in the home. Unfortunately, I don’t always see that level of commitment, which can be quite challenging. A child’s negative behaviors will not improve if their environment continues to stay the same.

I am a lover of nature, music, dance, dogs, science, astronomy, astrology, and mysticism. My favorite past time is going to hear live music at concerts and festivals! When it comes to my work as a clinical psychologist, I am rooted in science, and hugely influenced by neurology and neuropsychology. I am deeply fascinated with the brain. Additionally, I am very passionate and align with spirituality and alternative medicine. As a certified hypnotherapist, I love tapping into the subconscious mind for deep, transformational work. Another area in my field that I am presently embarking on is the study of psychedelics in mental health. The proof is in the pudding, and the research doesn’t lie. The benefits that psychedelics are demonstrating for those suffering from anxiety, depression, and PTSD (when administered responsibly and in a controlled environment) are outstanding! This is cutting edge research in my field at the moment, and I am here for it. Like with anything else, it t is not for everyone, and those who are interested in this modality should definitely consult with their physicians and medical providers first to ensure that they are medically a good candidate. Moreover, I am super excited to announce that I will be joining other therapists and medical providers at a retreat in Costa Rica this June that will be providing scientific training in psychedelic assisted therapies. I will be learning everything about the neurological mechanics and benefits, legal and ethical practices, and clinical implications surrounding this area of study. I can hardly wait!

What I am most proud of is the fact that I created a massive reinvention later on in my adulthood. In the spirit of full transparency, I graduated with my doctorate at 40, and was licensed by 41. Prior to this, I worked in the fashion, music, and nightlife industries. I am a living testament to the idea that it is really never too late to start over. Presently, I really love what I do. It’s not always easy, but I am having a wonderful experience in doing so. I learn so much from my clients each and every single day. We are all here to teach and help one another. This journey continues to show me so much about the human existence and my place in it. Throughout the years, I have learned to turn my struggles into purpose and power. My wish is to exude humility and strength through my stories to hopefully provide insight or inspiration for anyone out there who has lost their way, is struggling with self-doubt, or dealing with pain. I think we can all relate to that on some level.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

Never stop learning; always stay a student. I try to expand my horizons and knowledge with something new every year. I also don’t allow other people’s personal opinions to influence what I choose to learn about. Staying true to my own interests is not only inspiring, but also super fun! I find real joy in learning or engaging in things that peak my curiosity. It makes me very full when I do feed and nourish those parts of myself. I also think that finding people who have paved the path before you, or who are successful in your field is pivotal for inspiration, mentorship, and growth. Luckily, I am extremely fortunate and blessed to have found those individuals. Since I am not done learning yet, I know that I will continue meeting people who will end up becoming important chapters in my professional growth. I think it’s important to be open to this, and able to recognize these mentors when they do cross your path. I am also not shy about asking questions or expressing what I need with sincerity and honesty. On the flip side of this coin, it is equally important to give back. This can look like mentoring or supervising others by paying it forward to someone starting out, or offering pro-bono work for those truly in need. The copious amounts of gratitude that I feel for the people in my corner, and for my curiosity to want to keep learning are priceless.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

Doing good work. Trying to put my best foot forward, and hope that my impact on them is positive and profound. Not only do I hope to feel like I gave my best that day, but good work also results in referrals. The reality is that we all have our off days including myself. I’m human, and intentionally try to keep my energy levels up. I do this by making it a point to do everything I can to get good sleep. I also exercise regularly (every day) to help me release what I take in during my sessions, and also my own stuff.

Creating multiple avenues of revenue is also a good practice, in my opinion. I have a few of those. This is a wonderful because when things slow down in one area, the other avenues keep flowing. This probably dates back to when I worked in fashion and nightlife. I never had just one job. For most of my adult life, I have had two or three at a time. Now that I only have my one profession, I have invented different parts to my company or brand offering a variety of services: whether that’s traditionally therapy, hypnosis or past life regression, or veteran’s evaluations. Hopefully the psychedelic assisted therapy will be added to my menu of services sometime in the near future. These are all things I enjoy doing. I also learned how to read tarot cards, and have so much fun doing so, but as a hobby. I don’t see myself charging for this, it’s more for context. I love it. I’m pretty sure this derives from my biological paternal grandmother and great-grandmother who were curanderos in their community. It’s in my blood and comes pretty naturally to me. I didn’t understand it all as much as I do now, but I’m well aware that it’s a special gift that was passed down.

Something else that I found to be very helpful was getting paneled with a few health insurance companies as soon as I became licensed. This was a valuable suggestion from the psychologist who licensed out his practice to me. It has been great for referrals, especially as I started building my caseload. Managed health care is a growing problem in this country, and can be a big headache for us as not only as providers, but also as patients. The reality is that not everyone can afford to be a self-paying client, especially with everything going on these days. I try to remain mindful about this.

Setting up a profile on www.psychologytoday.com has also been another wonderful tool for referrals. Although I know some therapists that are successful and don’t have a website, I highly recommend creating one. Creating my own website with a web designer has also been extremely helpful for my business. It was hard work that required putting in a lot of hours, but it was so worth it. It’s never really “finished” since there are always updates and edits as things change, and as I change. For me, it’s always important to look up someone’s website or IG page when I am researching a service, brand or company that I am interested in. I love having this as a resource for my potential and existing clients to have so I can inform them about what it is that I am able to offer. I can’t stress enough how important it is to do your due diligence when looking to hire a mental health professional (or any medical provider or health specialist) that will become an integral part of your journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.vivapsych.com
• Instagram: viva_psych
• Facebook: N/A
• Linkedin: Vivianne Arriola, Psy.D.
• Twitter: N/A
• Youtube: N/A
• Yelp: N/A

Image Credits
My featured photo (white lace turtleneck), smiling photo in green top and ponytail, and Prince (my Pug) were all taken by 22 Portraits. I bought these pictures, but if you would like to credit Kirill at 22 Portraits that’s always nice!!