Moving to a new country can be difficult, especially if there are language, cultural, or religious barriers to assimilation. Learning how to balance cultural expectations and navigate a new environment of resources and governmental systems, regulations, and rules can be overwhelming and fraught with anxiety.
Exposure to traumatic events along the way — separation from family, inability to find work or housing, and health issues — can add to the instability and uncertainty many immigrants feel.
As a woman of Middle Eastern descent, I fully understand the trials — and accompanying traumas — that can occur when adapting to a new culture. I use a sensitive, multilevel mix of therapies that address social justice, human rights, and trauma issues faced by immigrants in a culturally sensitive way.
I have vast experience working with clients and immigration lawyers to help acquire Visas and residency and apply for citizenship, including writing verification letters. I don’t require a minimum number of sessions to write a verification letter, but instead determine this on a case-by-case basis.
Sessions are conducted in English, Spanish, or Arabic and will focus on providing treatment and counseling to empower, connect, and assist you in feeling at home in your new country.
Sandra is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Texas and founder of Instilling Hope Counseling Services. With a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Arabic Literature from The University of Texas at Austin and her Master of Science in Counseling from Southern Methodist University, Sandra sees individuals ages 13 and up, couples, and families.
As a therapist, Sandra's personal goal is to help eliminate the negative stigma that surrounds mental health and to encourage inclusivity and positivity across a wide range of personal relationship choices.
