MILENA GORDILLO, MSW, LSWAIC

ADULT AND TEENS PSYCHOTHERAPIST


Hello there and welcome!

I hold a master's degree in Social Work with a specialization in Mental Health. I am a certified clinician in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.

I work with adults, the elderly, teens, and families. I've had the privilege of working with individuals with different identities from mine (e.g., gender identity, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, immigrant status, and political views.

I work with many different clients helping them to overcome their traumas, mood challenges, and fears. I am humbled and honored to be a part of their journeys and healing processes.

The principal techniques I implement are narrative therapy and EMDR. I have witnessed how the combination of both methods creates a meaningful change in my clients' lives. Click here to learn more about talk therapy and EMDR.

ABOUT MY PRACTICE
AND MYSELF 

About my commitment to cultural humility

I identify as a Colombian, Latina, Hispanic, cisgender, woman. My pronouns are she/her/hers.

I recognize that I belong to a minority in the United States who faces systematic oppression. At the same time, I am conscious of the privileges I possess: I am able-bodied, white-passing, and hold a degree from an esteemed educational institution. My experience as an immigrant has taught me so much about my identity, intersectionalities, acceptance, and openness to individuals with different backgrounds than mine. 

 I am aware that my experiences are unique and I cannot generalize them to other individuals. However, I can share them to empower others. As a therapist, it is important to acknowledge the differences and cultural backgrounds of my clients. In my practice, I welcome, celebrate, and encourage everyone to be who they are. I am committed to educating myself about others and providing a trusted space of growth and respect for my clients.

What is LSWAIC ?

LSWAIC is an acronym for Licensed Social Worker Associate Independent Clinical. In Washington state, I am registered as an associate licensed therapist, which requires three years of work experience and passing the ASWB Advanced Generalist exam. I am currently completing the requirements and I expect to be independently licensed around mid-2024.

In order to provide psychotherapy services as an associate, I am required by law to work under the supervision of a fully licensed practitioner. My supervisor's name is Amber Holt, LICSW, LW60635493. Phone: 360 -218-4333 E-mail: amber@amberholtlcsw.com

The major difference between being fully licensed and an associate therapist is the ability to network with major health insurance companies; they only panel with a fully licensed therapist. Currently, I am able to see clients who have Kaiser Permanente insurance plans.

A bit about myself...

I was born in Bogotà, Colombia. I earned a bachelor's degree in Social Work at Universidad Colegio Mayor de Cundinamarca. I emigrated to the United States in 2014. I lived in New York for one year. My adaptation process to a new culture, norms, and learning a new language was not an easy path. At first, I wanted to return to my home country. However, I did not give up and decided to stay and pursue grad school at my dream school.

I wanted to become a student at the University of Washington (fun note: I used to tell people that I wanted to become a Husky). I hold a Master's degree in Social Work with a specialization in mental health. It took discipline, long nights of studying, overcoming obstacles, and perseverance, but I succeeded.

Today, Seattle has been my home for seven years and counting! When I am not working, I am spending time with my friends and boyfriend. I love watching movies, traveling, reading, and skiing.

I love being a psychotherapist. I've always had a passion for supporting others in their struggles and recovery paths. It keeps me motivated to learn new interventions, be informed about recent research, and, in turn, understand how to support my clients in their healing journey from different approaches.

When it comes to mental health services, one size does not fit all. I believe that each individual possesses wisdom, unique values, and strength. I help individuals to identify their wisdom and cultivate their strength to live the life that they want within their own principles and values. I personalize treatment plans with each individual, as each of us has a unique social environment, challenges, and resources. I believe that being open with clients provides support in building a healthy working relationship.


Visiting Bogotá, Colombia; Monserrate

Skiing on Crystal Mountain, WA