"There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.”
~ C.S. Lewis
We often look outside ourselves to help fill our need to be happier, fuller, and more purposeful. This is often reinforced by society that teaches us that it is the external that we need in order to be fulfilled. Or, on the other hand, we only look to ourselves to control our situations, our lives, not asking for help. Or living in fear nothing will change or get better for us. One of the main goals I see as a therapist is to help my clients work towards developing a rich and full life by turning the focus to their spirituality and helping to relinquish our false sense of control (over many things. We do have control over some, such as our actions) . My approach to therapy is looking at our relationships to our selves, others and our Higher Power, as I believe life is just not about being happy, but embracing life on life's terms, with all of its joys and sorrows, while working on the path towards self growth and love.
I have a background in theatre arts and social work. I graduated in 2011 from the University of Texas where I completed an intensive internship at the counseling and mental health center at UT. I have had training in acudetox (auricular acupuncture), mindfulness practice, neurobiology, couples counseling, andtrauma. After graduation I have worked in a various settings including private practice, college counselor, as a counselor at a methadone clinic working with opioid addictions and as a program counselor leading intensive outpatient groups for substance abuse and chemical dependency.
I specialize in the exploration of various topics including chemical dependency, addictions and addictive behaviors, mood disorders, self-esteem, self-compassion, perfectionism, and life transitions, especially new mothers and those embarking on college or career changes.
Relationships are an integral part of what it means to be human. Much of my work is based in relational and attachment theory. As you grow and develop a healthy relationship with yourself, by fostering your own well-being, you also gain tools to build healthier and more vibrant relationships. The therapeutic relationship itself can be one of great value and full of healing potential. This is why I work from a relational perspective, committed to helping bridge what is accomplished in a therapy into the world outside the session.
As a therapist, my work is based on two core concepts: mindfulness and self-compassion. While working in the here-and-now, or present moment, we are able to tolerate and hold onto uncomfortable emotions that we may often push aside as unfavorable or unnecessary, such as anger, sadness, and fear. Through the practice of mindfulness, we can develop more awareness in the present moment as we struggle with these difficult emotions. Self-compassion, the other central concept in my work, focuses on how we may respond to these emotions with loving-kindness for ourselves.
Additional areas of focus: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Coaching, Compassion fatigue, Abandonment, Codependency, Communication problems, Control issues, Dissociation, Divorce and separation, Domestic Violence, Drug and Alcohol Addiction, Emptiness, Forgiveness, Guilt and shame, Isolation / loneliness, Life purpose, Mood disorders , Obsessions, Compulsions, and OCD, Panic disorder and panic attacks, Post-traumatic stress, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Self-love, Social anxiety and phobia, Women's issues, Workplace issues
Clinical approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Existential Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
TX LCSW 55275
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Virginia Cruz. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Virginia is AWESOME! She just gets me.
Written on Mar 06, 2023 after therapy with Virginia for 11 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, and self esteem
She’s wonderful. Seems to genuinely care about what I’m saying and gives responses that are helpful and intuitive.
Written on Feb 23, 2023 after therapy with Virginia for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, grief, intimacy-related issues, parenting issues, self esteem, anger management, coping with life changes, and adhd
Virginia is patient, caring, and thoughtful. She goes above and beyond to be there for me when I need her and I am forever grateful for her.
Written on Jan 17, 2023 after therapy with Virginia for 7 months on issues concerning relationship issues, family conflicts, and coping with life changes
Virginia has been an amazing help to me in my journey to overcome my mental health struggles and has enabled me to make the exact changes I sought out with starting therapy and much more! She meets me where I'm at and passes no judgement which enables me to discuss things I'd otherwise feel shame in talking about! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Written on Dec 26, 2022 after therapy with Virginia for 6 months on issues concerning depression, addictions, and trauma and abuse
Virginia is thoughtful, knowledgeable and engaging. She provides a safe space for one to share and be heard. Moreover, she affirms and validates the emotions that one experiences and provides gentle nudges towards practices that may help an individual. All in all, she empowers her clients, makes them feel heard and affirms their struggles and personhood. 10/10 would recommend.
Written on Nov 14, 2022 after therapy with Virginia for 1 month
Just beginning with Virginia but it has been a great experience so far! She is attentive, caring, and understanding.
Written on Sep 27, 2022 after therapy with Virginia for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and self esteem