The Beginning of my Journey by

Dr. Pastora Hernandez Barbee, Ed.D, LMHC, MHP

 

I’m blessed in ways that I often don’t recognize; but I shift my perspective to see all the wonderful things that have been done for me.

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Welcome to LaFontana Counseling & Consultation Services. I am honored that you have taken the time to visit my site and consider using my services. I would like to tell you a bit about my story. I am a bilingual Mental Health Professional and Educator. I am also a state certified Spanish Social and Medical Interpreter. I was born and raised in Nicaragua, Central America, but I have been a Washingtonian for over 13 years. I love to travel around the world and learn about other cultures. I enjoy trying new cuisine while protecting the environment by eating sustainable food. I am a big advocate for mindfulness practice and spiritual enlightenment. Aside from all my other interests, I have a particular passion for meditation, body calmness, positive psychology, and spirituality. Exercising and healthy eating is important to me because I know the impact that these have in our mental health and general wellbeing. My goal as a therapist, mentor, and educator is to encourage and model self-love above all. Remember to stay connected with each other during these challenging times. Community is essential to maintain these connections, reach out to your tribe.

I have always been deeply passionate about mental health advocacy and the well-being of individuals facing mental health challenges. And volunteering at a local clinic for mental health services allow me to turn this passion into action. I was motivated to make a positive difference in the lives of those who were seeking support and to contribute to the overall well-being of my community.

I am deeply passionate about my hobbies and interests as they provide me with a sense of joy and fulfillment. I like running around town with my dogs Jak & Lola and dance in the parade that celebrates Earth. I believe my hobbies and interests have a profound impact on my personal well-being as they provide me with a much-needed outlet for stress relief and helps me maintain a healthy work-life balance. Beyond personal fulfillment, my hobbies and interests have also enabled me to connect with like-minded individuals.

However, of all the things I’ve shared with you, the most important thing I do, is spending time with my family.

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My approach with individuals is multidisciplinary, systemic, all-embracing, holistic, existential, and client-centered. I have faith in the immense potential each person possesses and in the capacity each person has to heal. My core training is based on psychodynamic, humanistic, cognitive, emotion-focused, and behavioral theories. However, I use a mix of research-based techniques and mindfulness practices because I'm a strong believer in the power of the connection between mind, body, and soul. I also integrate nutritional practices, life coaching, & spirituality to address the complex relationship between mental health and physical health. Therapy is a creative process that can have a meaningful and profound impact in transforming people's lives. While my goal as a psychotherapist is to tailor therapy to each client's specific needs; I use a combination of resources that can help to develop awareness around presenting issues. I work collaboratively with clients to create the necessary skills to improve life experience that leads to positive and sustainable outcomes. My principles are based on authenticity, intuition, self-love, gratitude, and forgiveness. My approach is warm, empathetic, and empowering.


I believe when something harmful is removed from our life, space is made to create something more aligned with our life’s purpose.

Credentials & Education

 Doctor of Education - University of Washington

Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology - St. Martin’s University

Bachelor of Arts in Social Psychology and Leadership - The Evergreen State College

Certified Spanish Social & Medical Interpreter (DSHS)

Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) LH61114532

Washington State Approved Supervisor

Mental Health Professional (MHP)

Certified Trauma Focused CBT

It’s a good day to start a chain of love and support, forgiveness, and acceptance. Smile often and remember that in the middle of uncertainty, there’s still hope.