Yuli Rodriguez, MHC-LP

My friends always called me “the therapist of the group” long before I had any idea that’s what I actually wanted to become. I was the one people came to when they needed someone to listen, to understand, to help them figure things out. I had these natural skills for listening and helping others without expecting anything in return, but I didn’t see it as a career path.

It took losing my brother in high school to really understand the power of this work. Going through grief counseling myself, having to rebuild piece by piece with no handouts or extra hands – that’s when I realized what I was meant to do.

Before becoming a therapist, I worked with adults with severe mental illness and developmental disabilities. I watched how society dismissed and misunderstood them, and I decided to become their voice. Now I do the same for every client who walks through my door. I want to advocate for the people who need someone in their corner, especially the “strong ones” who everyone expects to handle everything on their own.

My approach is different because I prioritize building a real relationship with my clients over just providing a service. I use toys and arts and crafts to help kids role-play their big feelings, because sometimes a 7-year-old can’t tell you they’re scared, but they might be able to show you through play.

I work with children ages 5-11 dealing with ADHD and behavioral challenges, plus adolescents and adults working through depression and trauma. My clients describe me as soft-spoken, empathetic, and understanding – but I’ll also challenge you when you need it.

Therapy is more than self-love – it’s finally putting yourself first, removing access from people who don’t bring you peace, and becoming self-aware enough to change patterns that aren’t serving you.