Glory Ann Zapata,Licensed Mental Health Counselor

"My name is Glory Ann Zapata and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Miami, Florida, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns and diagnoses including depression, stress and anxiety, LGBTQ-related issues, trauma, schizophrenia spectrum disorder, homelessness, bipolar disorders, HIV and STDs, tobacco, substance and alcohol use, relationship issues, self-esteem, chronic pain, and career counseling. I use different theoretical orientations depending on the client's needs as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered to help my clients make progress and start feeling better."

My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as both modalities help me and the client build a shared understanding of their reality, and allow us to work together to chart a path forward. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for adults and young adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life situations and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and relational issues. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life. My therapy and communication style are warm, supportive, personable, and interactive. I want my clients to feel comfortable talking with me about anything, and I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment.

I decided to become a therapist because I have always wanted to listen and help people. With a great opportunity to be able to work in a community mental health center setting, I provided services to underserved and minority health populations. I have experience working with a culturally diverse population struggling with severe mental illness comorbid with other medical conditions and substance abuse as a psychotherapist and wellness coach. My approach to goal setting with clients is all about working together to define what you want to accomplish in our time together. This often starts by building trust between us and getting comfortable with what it means to be in therapy. Over time, we will work together to set goals and track your progress.

What you can expect from our first session together is for us to spend the majority of our time talking about how you have been feeling recently, and for me to ask questions to better understand some of why you may be feeling that way. The first session is about us building an initial connection and helping me get a sense of where we should go from there. Each individual is different, and I like to listen first before assuming I know what will work best for you moving forward. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you.