Ana Mendoza, MS, LPC-IT (she/her/hers)

Psychotherapist

Professional Background

Ana holds a Master’s of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Viterbo University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Pre-Occupational Therapy from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. She has extensive experience providing culturally responsive counseling and support, focusing on meeting the unique needs of diverse and underrepresented communities. Her professional journey includes roles such as counseling intern, disability advisor, and multicultural admissions counselor, where she honed her skills in therapy, assessments, and treatment planning. Ana’s ability to build strong therapeutic relationships ensures her clients feel heard, understood, and supported throughout their journey.

Ana brings a wealth of experience and cultural competence to her practice at Collective Counseling and Consultation LLC.

Therapeutic Approach

Ana embraces a collaborative and empowering approach, focusing on helping clients connect with their authentic selves and values. She guides clients in reclaiming personal power and navigating power dynamics in relationships, fostering a safe and empathetic environment for self-exploration and growth.

Ana embraces a collaborative and empowering therapeutic approach, focusing on helping clients connect with their authentic selves and values. She works with clients to reclaim personal power and address external factors impacting their well-being. Her approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, fostering an environment where clients can explore their identities and develop strategies to manage their overall wellbeing.

Specialties

Empowering Diverse Communities: Ana is dedicated to empowering diverse communities, including BIPOC individuals, people with disabilities, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals. She supports clients in overcoming systemic barriers and enhancing their self-esteem and identity.

College Student Mental Health: Ana specializes in supporting college students as they navigate identity issues, relationship dynamics, and academic challenges. She fosters resilience and self-awareness, helping students manage their mental health proactively.

Identity Exploration and Empowerment: Ana assists clients in exploring the intersections of their identities and challenging societal expectations, promoting a deeper understanding of self-worth and empowering them to make choices aligned with their values.

Anxiety, Depression, and Stress Management: Ana provides support for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress, helping them develop effective coping strategies and build resilience to improve overall well-being.

Take the Next Steps

Whether you’re navigating identity challenges, college life, dealing with anxiety or depression, or seeking personal empowerment, Ana is here to guide you on your journey to self-discovery and fulfillment.

Let's work together to unlock your full potential and embrace a brighter future. Schedule your complimentary consultation today.

Schedule 15 Minute Consultation

Ana Mendoza is currently practicing under the supervision of Vanessa Minor, LPC, CSAC, as she fulfills the requirements for independent practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Wisconsin.

FAQs About Working with a Therapist In Training

Q: What are the benefits of working with a therapist in training? A: Choosing to work with a therapist in training can be a uniquely rewarding experience. Here are several key benefits: 1.Fresh Perspectives: Therapists in training are often at the forefront of the latest therapeutic techniques and theories. Their fresh knowledge means they bring new and innovative approaches to sessions, potentially offering insights and interventions that are cutting-edge. 2.Supervised Practice: Therapists in training work under the guidance and supervision of experienced professionals. This layer of oversight ensures that the care you receive is both safe and of high quality, as their work is continually reviewed and refined. 3.Affordability: Sessions with therapists in training are often more affordable than those with fully licensed professionals. This can make therapy more accessible to individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford it, widening the opportunity for emotional and mental wellbeing support. 4.Eagerness and Commitment: Being in the early stages of their career, therapists in training are typically highly motivated and deeply committed to their work. Their enthusiasm for their profession can translate into a more engaged and dynamic therapeutic relationship. 5.Diverse Perspectives: Many training programs emphasize cultural competence and the importance of understanding diverse backgrounds. Working with a therapist in training can mean receiving care that's informed by a broad perspective on human experiences, which can be particularly beneficial in navigating issues related to cultural diversity and identity. Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision, and working with a therapist in training is one pathway among many toward improving your mental and emotional wellbeing. If you have any concerns or questions about this option, we're here to talk and help you decide the best path forward for you.

Q: Does the therapist in training accept insurance, and if so, which ones? A: Yes, we understand that navigating the financial aspects of therapy can be a concern for many. Our therapist in training is committed to making mental health services accessible and affordable. We are pleased to accept: Wisconsin Medicaid/BadgerCare HMOs: United Health Care, Chorus Community Health Plan, Anthem, Dean Advocate Aurora Team Member Plan Health Partners If you have questions about your specific coverage, or if you need assistance determining your eligibility and benefits, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help navigate these details with you, ensuring a smooth and supportive start to your therapeutic journey.

Q: Are there affordable payment options available for sessions with the therapist in training? A: Absolutely! We firmly believe in making therapy accessible to everyone, understanding that financial constraints should not be an obstacle to receiving high-quality mental health care. For this reason, our therapist in training offers sessions at a lower cost compared to fully licensed therapists. We encourage anyone worried about the affordability of therapy to discuss their situation with us. Our aim is to collaborate with you to find a viable solution that grants you access to the care and support you need. Please don't hesitate to reach out for more information on our pricing.

Q: How will my therapy sessions be supervised? A: Supervision is a vital part of the training process for therapists in training, ensuring that they provide the highest quality of care. Here’s how supervision typically works: Supervisory Meetings: Your therapist in training regularly meets with a licensed and experienced supervisor to review and discuss their caseload, including general themes and progress in therapy sessions. These discussions are conducted in a way that maintains your anonymity and confidentiality. Case Presentations: In some cases, specific sessions or client situations may be presented in a more detailed manner for educational purposes. Again, any identifiable client information is omitted to protect privacy and confidentiality. Guidance and Feedback: Supervisors provide guidance, feedback, and professional insight to the therapist in training, helping them to refine their skills, apply best practices, and navigate complex therapeutic scenarios. This process enhances the therapeutic support you receive. Ethical Standards: Both therapists in training and their supervisors adhere to strict ethical standards, including confidentiality. The supervision process is designed to support your therapy journey while safeguarding your personal information. The goal of supervision is not to intrude on the client-therapist relationship but to enhance the quality of care you receive. It’s an integral part of ensuring that therapy services are delivered with competence, professionalism, and a deep commitment to your well-being. If you have any questions or concerns about the supervision process, we welcome the opportunity to discuss them with you. It's important to us that you feel comfortable and informed every step of the way.

Q: Who should I contact if I have concerns about my therapist in training? A: Ensuring you feel supported and heard during your therapy journey is paramount to us. If any concerns arise with your therapist in training, we recommend the following approach: 1.Speak Directly to Your Therapist: Open communication is vital for a successful therapy experience. We encourage you to share any concerns directly with your therapist. This not only provides an opportunity for immediate clarification and adjustment but also strengthens the therapeutic relationship. 2.Contact the Supervising Therapist: If you feel uncomfortable addressing your concerns with your therapist in training or if the issue is not resolved to your satisfaction, please reach out to their supervising therapist. The supervising therapist can offer additional perspectives, mediate solutions, and ensure that your therapy experience meets the highest standards of care and professionalism. Your comfort and progress in therapy are our highest priorities. We believe that addressing concerns promptly and effectively is key to a positive and productive therapeutic experience. Please feel comfortable to bring up any issues, knowing that our team is committed to your wellbeing.