Starting Therapy? Here’s What to Know— From One of Our Therapists

Starting therapy can bring up a mix of emotions—hope, uncertainty, even fear. Maybe you’ve been thinking about it for a while, or maybe life has pushed you to a point where you know you can’t do it alone anymore. Wherever you are, you're not alone—and we want to help you feel supported from the very beginning.

At Life Psychology, we believe therapy works best when it begins with trust and transparency. That’s why we invited our therapists to answer a few heartfelt questions about their work, their values, and the kind of space they create for clients.

Today, we’re sharing a glimpse into the perspective of Dr. Alina Baltazar, MSW, PhD.

Dr. Baltazar’s path to therapy started with something simple but powerful: a deep desire to help others and "make a real difference in people's lives."

Her early experiences, including time spent with her grandmother, gave her a front-row seat to the emotional struggles people face behind closed doors—and lit the spark that would eventually guide her into the world of mental health.

“Growing up with my grandmother, I saw the struggles that she and others went through emotionally, and I wanted to help.”

This early sense of empathy is what still fuels her today. Therapy, for Dr. Baltazar, is not just a profession—it’s a partnership.

Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all

If you’ve never been to therapy before, you might be wondering:

What’s it like? What if I don’t know what to say? What if I cry? What if I don’t?

Dr. Baltazar’s answer: Therapy is yours to shape.

“I view therapy as a collaborative, strengths-based, person-centered process.”

That means it’s not about being “fixed” or doing things a certain way—it’s exploring your story, strengths, and struggles with someone who listens without judgment.

Together, you co-create the path forward.

We have tools to help

Dr. Baltazar specializes in:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Mindfulness strategies

These evidence-based approaches help clients reframe unhelpful thought patterns, cope with difficult emotions, and build long-term emotional resilience.

We'll always provide a safe space

Therapy only works when you feel safe. That’s why Dr. Baltazar prioritizes building a trusting, respectful environment from the very first session.

“This is done by building a trusting, nonjudgmental relationship where people feel heard and respected.”

Small steps lead to a big impact

If you’re feeling anxious about the idea of therapy, that’s okay. Even therapists have their own ways of coping with stress and anxiety.

Dr. Baltazar suggests starting small:

• Take a walk.

• Talk to someone you trust.

• Try slow, intentional breathing.

• Sing (yes—singing can be incredibly grounding!).

“Talking to others, going for walks, singing—these small practices can make a big difference.”

One final reminder

If you’re struggling with depression, you might be trying to “tough it out” or wondering why you can’t just shake it off. Dr. Baltazar wants you to know:

“Depression impacts the whole body.”

It's not weakness. It's not laziness. It’s a real, whole-body experience—and you don’t have to face it alone.

We know starting therapy can be a big decision. Whether you’re ready to book a session or just beginning to explore, we’re here to support you.

You deserve healing. You deserve to feel heard. You deserve to begin.

Berrien Springs Office

(269) 815-5331

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