Jessenia Velez MSW, LISW-S (she/her/ella)

I offer therapy for adults with a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed approach. I understand that much of our pain comes not only from personal experiences, but also from systemic, cultural, and social factors that influence our lives.

I see therapy as a tool for support and reflection—a space where you can explore your story, process difficult experiences, and relate to yourself with greater acceptance and compassion.

  • Being a therapist means holding safe and compassionate spaces for others while continuing to hold my own personal process. I consider myself a feminist and activist therapist, committed to social justice and to creating spaces where you feel seen and valued for who you are.

    As a highly sensitive person, I have learned to move through the world with that human sensitivity, and I bring the same care and empathy into our sessions. I deeply believe in the power of human connection and in what can emerge when someone listens to your pain with empathy and respect. For me, meaningful therapeutic work grows from an authentic relationship based on trust, warmth, humor, and curiosity.

    As a Latina, I recognize both the privileges and the intersections that shape my identity. My pronouns are she/her/hers. I am cisgender and have no visible disabilities. I often integrate conversations about oppression and privilege in sessions because I firmly believe we cannot leave out the social effects of racism, sexism, classism, ableism, ageism, homophobia, transphobia, colorism, anti-Roma discrimination, Islamophobia, statelessness discrimination, xenophobia, and fatphobia in our lives—they are part of the equation of our mental health.

    I have a personal interest in existential and humanistic therapies, such as logotherapy. I am also familiar with religious deconstruction, and I welcome conversations about these topics or the integration of them into therapy if that is something you wish to explore. Many of my clients have shared that they appreciate how I respect their beliefs and incorporate spirituality into the process in a way that reflects who they are. Ethically, my own beliefs do not belong in our sessions, but I do believe in honoring yours.

    If you are going through an existential crisis, a faith transition, or religious trauma, this is a safe space for you as well. Together, we can explore how to find your values and your meaning.

    • Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Puerto Rico

    • Master’s Degree in Social Work with a focus on Families, Children, and Adolescents from Case Western Reserve University

  • Training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

    Level 1 and Level 2 Certification in the Gottman Method (Couples Therapy)

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Importante:

En Amapola Mental Health, valoramos la equidad y la inclusión. Comprometida con un enfoque afirmativo y respetuoso hacia las comunidades LGBTQIA2S+, y somos antirracistas tanto a nivel personal como profesional. Mi objetivo es crear un entorno seguro e inclusivo para personas de todas las identidades y orígenes, independientemente de su raza, etnia, orientación sexual, identidad de género, capacidad, estatus migratorio y/o religión. Me esfuerzo por ofrecer una atención afirmativa y sensible a las necesidades y experiencias de todas las personas a las que acompaño.

No somos un servicio de emergencia. Si estás viviendo una crisis de salud mental, por favor, llama al 1-800-854-7771 o acude al departamento de emergencias más cercano. Si tú o alguien que amas necesita apoyo urgente, consulta nuestros recursos de salud mental. No atendemos visitas sin cita ni ofrecemos servicios de emergencia en nuestras instalaciones.