Arleen Patin

Practice Philosophy

I believe that embarking on a journey of growth and healing is paramount in our lives. My practice philosophy centers on trusting in an individual’s inherent capacity to heal, guiding my process of helping clients facilitate a sense of agency and contentment with life. I approach therapy with openness and respect, recognizing each client as unique with their own experiences. My therapeutic approach is informed by my personal growth and the journeys of my clients. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment filled with empathy and compassion, allowing clients to become more comfortable with themselves, others, and the world around them.

I specialize in working with individuals, and sex therapy. My approach is gentle, empathic, and compassionate, focusing on trauma/PTSD, anxiety healing, grief, loss and bereavement, transitions and change adjustments, and sexual abuse healing for both women and men. I employ techniques such as EMDR, Mindfulness Meditation, Somatic Experiencing (SE), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help clients process and integrate their experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships.

Therapeutic Approach & Specialties

Individual Therapy
In individual therapy, I offer compassionate support for personal growth and healing, helping clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, grief, relationship issues, and various life transitions. I integrate Mindfulness Meditation into sessions to enhance present-moment attention and self-awareness, fostering a deeper understanding of thoughts, emotions, and sensations. Somatic Experiencing (SE) is also employed, complementing mindfulness practices to help clients become reacquainted and comfortable with their body processes. This integrative approach includes Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, enabling clients to explore and embrace different aspects of themselves that influence their interactions, choices, and overall wellbeing.

Trauma Therapy (EMDR + Flash Technique)
In trauma therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and the Flash Technique utilize bilateral stimulation to help clients reprocess traumatic events, fostering understanding and growth. EMDR reduces the emotional impact of traumas, while the Flash Technique addresses distressing memories using similar bilateral stimulation methods as needed. These techniques are especially effective in my specialized approach to trauma therapy.

Sex Therapy

In sex therapy, I provide a supportive and non-judgmental space for individuals and couples to explore their intimate relationships and sexual concerns. My approach combines empathy and evidence-based techniques to address a wide range of issues, from enhancing communication and intimacy to navigating sexual dysfunctions and exploring diverse sexual identities. I tailor therapy to meet the unique needs and goals of each client, fostering a journey of healing, growth, and fulfillment in their sexual lives.

Mindfulness

I additionally specialize in Mindfulness therapy which focuses on cultivating present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance of one's thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations. Through guided practices and exercises, clients learn to observe their experiences with clarity and openness, enhancing their ability to respond skillfully to stressors and challenges. Mindfulness techniques are tailored to each client's unique needs, promoting emotional resilience, stress reduction, and overall wellbeing. By integrating mindfulness into therapy sessions, clients develop a deeper connection with themselves and cultivate a greater sense of inner peace and balance.

Background
I was born in Panama and raised in Miami from the age of 1. As an only child of parents with different religious beliefs—Catholic and Jewish—I understand the complexities of diverse family backgrounds. My own journey through trauma has deepened my empathy and compassion for others facing similar challenges.

I hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Florida International University and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I'm a licensed mental health counselor, certified in EMDR, and informed in somatic experiencing and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Caring for my older parents taught me that it's never too late to learn and grow, a lesson I pass on to my clients.

Married and a mom to my beloved Shih-Tzu, Gino, I cherish animals, music, dance, exercise, and gardening as my expressive outlets.