Dr. Irene Escobar-Galvez shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Irene, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
I try to build my days around balance and connection. In the mornings I either work out or do yoga, which helps me take care of my mind and body before holding space for others. Most of my day is spent meeting with therapy clients, which I truly love. Since my work can be emotionally intense, I make it a point to weave in moments of self-care, like walking my dog or cooking a meal.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a licensed psychologist and the founder of Siempre Mejorando Therapy, a private practice where I specialize in supporting Latinos and first-generation professionals navigating anxiety, cultural identity, and life transitions. What makes my work unique is that I bring both professional training and lived experience into the room. I understand firsthand what it’s like to balance cultural expectations, family dynamics, and personal goals. My mission is to create a safe, culturally affirming space where clients don’t have to explain or justify their background before getting the help they need.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed that my value came only from my accomplishments such as grades, achievements, and how much I could do for others. Like many first-gen kids, I thought that being successful was the only way to repay my family’s sacrifices. Over time, and through my own healing, I’ve learned that my worth isn’t conditional. I am valuable simply by being myself, not because of what I produce or achieve.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self that it’s okay to carve out your own path, even if it looks different from what others expect of you. Every detour will teach you something valuable and bring you closer to what you love, like the path that eventually led me to build my own practice.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
A cultural value I protect at all costs is the importance of family and community. Growing up Latina, I learned that we don’t go through life alone, we lean on each other, support each other, and celebrate together. And I know family can look different for everyone. For some, it’s blood relatives, and for others it’s the people we choose along the way. What matters is that we all find our own version of family or community. I bring that same value into my therapy practice, where connection and trust are at the center of the healing process.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say I was someone who cared deeply and poured into others. That I created safe spaces, whether in therapy or in personal relationships, where people felt seen, understood, and supported.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.siempremejorandotherapy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/siempremejorandotherapy/
- Other: https://latinxtherapy.com/therapists/dr-irene-escobar-galvez-licensed-psychologist/
Image Credits
Pure Aesthetics Photos – by Cierrah Beltran
