Harlene dela Torre-McIlwain

Welcome

What is your approach to therapy? My approach, grounded in presence, trust, and connection, is both experiential and collaborative. This means we’ll gently move beyond just talking, exploring your inner world in the present moment – noticing sensations, emotions, images, and meanings as they arise. This deep work is supported by attachment theory, trauma-informed care, and methods like IFS, AEDP, and somatic practices. As we partner in this, your feedback is invaluable. I truly welcome you to share if something isn’t helpful, as your perspective helps us refine our approach. I'll check in, but always value hearing directly from you. What can clients expect from their first session with you? Our first session is about connection and clarity. We'll focus on what you want to address – the challenges you face and the changes you hope for. I’ll listen deeply to understand how issues show up for you. We'll discuss how we might work together, emphasizing collaboration and ensuring you feel safe and heard. Everything is an invitation, guided by what feels right for you.

About

Are you often self-critical, battling a harsh inner voice? Do you feel suffocated by shame, “not good enough-ness”, unworthiness, and the aloneness that follows? These painful feelings, perhaps learned from past trauma or unsupportive environments, can truly hinder you from living a more rewarding, joyful life. If this sounds familiar, please know I understand. I specialize in working with anxiety, complex trauma, self-criticism, identity, relationship difficulties, life transitions, sexuality, and gender. I'm here to help.

Other Areas of Focus

Therapy Types

My therapeutic framework is attachment-based and trauma-informed and includes somatic, mindfulness-based, parts work, and psychedelic harm reduction and integration therapies. My approach is grounded in the idea that presence, trust, and connection are the essential elements for any healing relationship.