Natalia was granted the opportunity to pursue undergraduate studies in America. While exploring the many disciplines afforded to her, she volunteered as a crisis hotline counselor and thus intertwined her passion for altruism with the psychology of mental health. This passion led her to earn a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Hunter College. After graduation, Natalia worked as a residential counselor with adolescents, where she discovered her love for working with young people. Inspired by this experience, she returned to Hunter College to obtain a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work. Throughout her career, she has gained extensive experience in a variety of therapeutic settings, working with teenagers, young adults, and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, phobias, ADHD, addiction, and trauma.
As an immigrant who has traveled extensively, Natalia has developed a deep appreciation for the diverse experiences and challenges people face across different cultures. This unique perspective fuels her commitment to helping young adults and teenagers, especially those grappling with identity, belonging, and self-esteem. She understands how life transitions—whether adjusting to new environments, navigating different cultures, or entering new stages of life—can significantly impact mental health. As a result, she focuses on supporting clients through challenges like anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, as well as significant life transitions, early career burnout, college burnout, and the pressures college students face.
Want to know more? As part of joining the team, Natalia was asked 5 questions about being a therapist:
What is one thing you love about being a therapist?
Witnessing people's resilience and growth is one of my favorite things about being a therapist. It is a beautiful and unique experience to see my clients make big and small breakthroughs and know they are moving toward a life that feels more meaningful and aligned with their true selves. It is a privilege to be a part of that journey, offering support and tools while my clients rediscover their true potential and inner strength.
What is one of your favorite books related to mental health, social work, or therapy?
The Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown is one of the books that profoundly resonates with me. The author takes a deeply human approach to understanding vulnerability, reframing it as a source of strength rather than weakness. She emphasizes how embracing vulnerability leads to deeper connections, creativity, and personal growth. This book encourages people to lean into their discomfort and be present with their imperfections, which aligns with the therapeutic process. I aim to foster the same environment in therapy, where clients can feel safe to be vulnerable, confront their fears, and embrace their emotions without judgment.
What is one thing you can help a young adult or teen with the most?
Navigating the many transitions that come with young adulthood can be challenging. Whether adjusting to changes in family dynamics, stepping into new roles and responsibilities, or exploring your career path, I'm here to support young adults in finding clarity and direction. I also work with individuals facing early burnout, offering strategies to manage stress, set boundaries, and cultivate a sense of balance. Together, we can explore ways to build resilience and confidence, ensuring young adults feel equipped to handle the complexities of this vital stage of their lives.
What is something you would want parents to know about you?
I want parents to know that communication is at the heart of my approach. I strive to create a space where your teen feels understood, supported, and empowered to navigate the challenges they face. I also recognize that parenting during the teenage years can be tough, and it's just as important for you to feel heard and supported throughout the process. I aim to collaborate with you and your teen, ensuring they receive the best care possible while offering guidance and reassurance for you as parents during this often challenging time.
What are some of your favorite coping skills when feeling stressed?
As someone who regularly helps others manage their stress, I've learned various self-regulation tools that work for me. Self-expression through movement is especially important to me, and I make it a key part of my routine. My go-to practices include mindful meditation, yoga, running, and rollerblading. I also lean on the support of my family and friends, which helps keep me grounded during challenging times.
Interested in working with Natalia? Please email Liz@LizMorrisonTherapy for more information or to set up an initial appointment.