Supporting survivors of trauma and loss with Doctoral level care.
Dr. Angelica Rivera, DPC, LPC - Trauma therapist in Houston
I’m a Doctoral level Trauma Therapist that is not intimidated by hard stories.
As a doctoral-level clinician, my extensive research background has allowed me to develop specialized insights into specific issues. I've dedicated significant time to in-depth exploration and understanding of trauma, grief and loss, enabling me to offer a depth of knowledge and nuanced approaches to treatment. It's important to note that master's level clinicians also bring valuable skills and experience to the table, but my additional research focus provides a unique perspective that may be beneficial in certain cases.
Since I’ve dedicated this significant time to researching cases, peoples, issues, and experiences - I understand that these life altering experiences are rich with self discovery and self esteem opportunities with the right support. Time you set aside to process these stories with me in therapy will lead to confidence, perspective, and security about yourself and the world. I have a lot of certainty that no matter what a client brings in, they will leave having a new outlook on life.
Shady Cedar Therapy…
When I was a little girl, there was a tall Cedar tree in our front yard. I got to climb it with my sister, smell the fragrant scent in the bark, and rest underneath it’s wide canopy. I wanted to name my therapy practice after the tree that allowed me to discover who I really was.
Therapy with me will be the shade that brings relief to mental discomfort. We will rest when you need to rest, work when you need to get past difficulty, and climb to see what you’re truly made of.
Cedars are very tall, have oils that are pleasing to the senses and have healing properties, and have wide canopies to rest/play underneath on hot days. Many animals find their homes in Cedar trees because of it’s height and stability. Shady Cedar Therapy can be the support you’re needing wherever you are on your journey.
Trauma, grief and loss.
Bad experiences are not enjoyable to talk about. However, they are ripe with opportunity for self-discovery, self-love, and confidence for the future. I have the tools you need to process, heal and make meaning of what happened. Your memories will no longer be tombstones, but stepping stones to your dreams.
Quality relationships.
Whether it’s with yourself, friends, partner, kids or your family - you can have the quality and enjoyable connections you have been longing for.
Christian Counseling.
If you are looking for a place that is safe to exercise your faith, you have found the right place. I specialize in working with people who are Christians that want the freedom to include God in their mental health journey.
Training & Education
Education and Licensure
Houston Graduate School of Theology, 2023 - Doctorate in Professional Counseling: Specializing in Trauma, Grief and Loss
Houston Graduate School of Theology, 2018 - Double Majored in Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Counseling
Houston Baptist University, 2012 - Double Majored in Christianity and Psychology
Trainings and Certifications
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional
Trust Based Relational Intervention for families
Trauma Affect Regulation: Guidance for Education and Therapy
Certified Family Trauma Professional
Previous experience working with kids, teens, young adults as after school tutors, a Youth Minister and Young Adult Minister.