Supervising Therapist, she/her

Cathy Vargas, LMHC

Specialties:
BIPOC
Sex & Sexuality
Shame
Trauma-Informed Therapy
Body Image
Eating Disorders
Bilingual Spanish

  • I am a bisexual, cis, able-bodied, mentally able, Hispanic woman who has lived in Queens, NYC for most of my life. I was raised in a Colombian and Trinidadian household by my mother, grandmother, and step father. My grandmother taught me Spanish, Colombian traditions, how to cook maduros and all the drama from telenovelas. I spend my time baking fun desserts and hanging out with my pets while watching true crime documentaries and Marvel films.

  • Therapy with me is a personalized experience based on your wants for therapy and what activities align with your goals and preferences. We start by setting goals for your therapeutic journey and start each session by setting an agenda of what we want to explore. I use a direct approach in our space implementing tools and strategies, offering homework, rapport building activities, and open disclosure. I will help you make your own decisions and guide you whenever needed, helping you move towards your mental health goals.

  • I prioritize relational therapy which means we will discuss our relationship to gain a better understanding of how you make connections outside of our shared space. I incorporate mindfulness and somatic CBT so you can better understand your body and mind connection, gaining and expanding helpful coping skills. I also utilize psychodynamic approaches to identify the root causes of your current challenges in order to overcome them and promote your general well-being.

  • You may struggle with identifying and expressing your emotions or feel that no one understands you. You might be a people pleaser and find it hard or selfish to prioritize yourself. You might be struggling with something else. I specialize in co-creating a safe and brave space where you will be in the driver's seat; prioritizing yourself by taking more control and having me as a guide as we address your wants and needs. I have successfully supported BIPOC and sexually and gender diverse folx in their healing from trauma, shame, body image, and eating disorders.

  • Growing up, my intersectional identities left me somewhat invisible. I felt rejected, neglected, and voiceless. As an adult, this made me passionate about caring, supporting, and advocating for people like me who also feel invisible and voiceless. I am privileged to mainly work with BIPOC and sexually and gender diverse populations. Knowing that I can be an advocate and great supporter for other people within my communities fills me with joy and purpose.

  • $230 for individual therapy and $280 for relationship/family therapy. Limited sliding scale fee slots available. Payment is accepted using Zelle, credit, debit, HSA/FSA, cash, and check.

  • I would love to be able to assist you on your mental health journey in reaching your desired goals. If you are interested in working with me or learning more about me, please feel free to email me at: cathy@heartspace-therapy. com to book a free 15-minute consultation.