Yilda Martinez, LPC, LPCC

Q&A

What inspired you to become a therapist?

Growing up in a Latinx household, I saw firsthand the cultural pressure to "smile on the outside" regardless of the weight we carry within. As a lifelong empath, I recognized early on that this silence, while intended to show strength, often stood in the way of true healing. My journey into therapy was born from a desire to break that cycle and provide my community with a space where masks are no longer necessary. I am dedicated to honoring our cultural roots while redefining resilience to include emotional vulnerability and mental well-being. Today, I help clients navigate the complexities of their internal worlds so they can move past "just getting by" and begin truly thriving.

What do you feel are your greatest strengths?

My greatest strength as a therapist is the unwavering belief that no one is beyond healing, a conviction rooted deeply in my faith. I hold my faith near and dear to my heart, and it serves as the compass for everything I do, allowing me to show up for my clients with genuine hope and a spirit of service. I am an active listener and a dedicated empath who doesn't just observe your journey but chooses to walk alongside you through your hardest moments. I believe that while the path to recovery requires hard work, you don’t have to walk it alone. By bringing this heart-centered approach to my practice, I create a space where you are seen, supported, and empowered to overcome whatever you are going through.

‍What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

When clients sit down with me, they can expect a shift from "performing" to simply being. Because of my roots in a culture that prizes outward appearances, my sessions are designed to be a sanctuary where the mask can finally come off.

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Background

• Certifications: Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Graduate Education: Rider University