Today we’d like to introduce you to Brianda Garcia
Hi Brianda, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In Mexican culture, therapy often carries a stigma, which makes discussing it challenging. My journey into the counseling field began when I sought guidance beyond my family and friends after my divorce. Venting to the same people wasn’t helping me anymore; instead, I felt ashamed, embarrassed, and like a burden for repeatedly bringing up my feelings about my marriage. While others seemed to be moving forward in their lives, I found myself struggling to make progress.
My first therapy session went well, but I quickly realized that my urgency to overcome my divorce in just a few sessions was unrealistic. During one of those early sessions, I thought, “I can do this, and I can do it better!” Looking back, I admire my determination, but I now see that a crucial element was missing: cultural understanding and relatability. Although my therapist was kind and compassionate, our differences left me feeling misunderstood. After reflecting on my needs, I recognized the importance of having Spanish-speaking counselors. This realization inspired me to become an accessible, bilingual mental health therapist dedicated to serving the Latinx community.
I am now a strong advocate for mental health and dedicated to raising awareness within my cultura! I strive to connect with others who share similar experiences in various ways. My passion project, the Latinas Talkin’ Therapy podcast, is now a reality, and I co-host it to foster meaningful conversations. Additionally, as the Del Valle ambassador for Austin Latinas Unidas, I have the opportunity to reach a broader audience and help reduce the fears associated with seeking help from outside one’s inner circle.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’ve encountered several obstacles on my journey to becoming a mental health therapist. First and foremost, the financial aspect has always been a concern- balancing the costs of education, my budget for life expenses, and finding creative ways to offer affordable therapy while sustaining my practice. Through this all, one common theme I recognize happens often is providing reassurance to individuals new to therapy. II frequently explain what I do, why I do it, and the therapeutic journey itself. You might think repeating myself would get old, but it doesn’t! What truly matters to me is knowing that someone is interested in therapy, and that’s the awareness I aim to promote through my work.
We’ve been impressed with Brianda García Psychotherapy, PLLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I run my own private practice that focuses on providing mental health services at an affordable cost. I offer reduced rates for BIPOC clients and provide both virtual and in-person sessions. I’m fluent in Spanish, so feel free to speak to me in English, Spanish, or Spanglish—I can keep up! I aim to make my work creative, fun, and comforting; so clients open to a youthful approach to therapy tend to appreciate my humor, adaptability, and directness in sessions. My specialties include anxiety, depression, and identity work, but particularly enjoy addressing generational trauma, narcissism, and cultural assimilation. Additionally, I currently am co-hosting a LGBTQIA+ group for youth, creating a safe space and sense of community for its members.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice to anyone considering therapy is to just give it a try, even if you’re not completely sure it will help. The confidentiality aspect is a great advantage—no one has to know you’re in therapy! It’s also important to emphasize that therapy can be affordable. Don’t let the price tag intimidate you. We just need to explore the right resources that fit your circumstances and budget.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.briandagarcia.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foreverjunglatina/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/foreverjunglatina/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@foreverjunglatina
