Garrett Encinas

Hello, my name is Garrett and I am the Intake Clinician at Cathexis. I use he/him pronouns and identify as a queer man. Growing up in a Latino household and practicing Catholicism until high school shaped my early experiences. My journey with mental health began with my ADHD diagnosis as a child. These personal experiences highlighted the importance of multicultural competencies in therapy, inspiring me to pursue a career in psychology and become a therapist.

I am currently a second-year Master’s student at Northern Arizona University in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Alongside my role as the Intake Clinician for Cathexis, I am also a Counseling Intern. My diverse identity and experiences enable me to think from a multicultural lens, which I bring into my practice. Previously, I worked as a Behavioral Technician for three years, collaborating with children with autism and their families to improve their quality of life. This experience allowed me to naturally integrate various forms of Behavioral Therapy into my approach. I also incorporate techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Positive Therapy to tailor my style to each client’s goals. As a Counseling Intern, I am not afraid to use alternative modalities that better fit my clients needs.

When I work with clients, I encourage them to be curious about themselves, exploring their thoughts and behaviors as if they’re getting to know a new person. Utilizing therapy time in this intentional, shame-free space can deepen self-understanding and enhance the benefits of our sessions, helping to achieve the desired outcomes.

As a Graduate student, I offer a fresh perspective in the field while gaining valuable insights from my clients. I understand the challenge of finding a space where your voice is not only heard but also understood. Together, we will create a safe space where you can fully express yourself and exist without judgment. I will use techniques to guide you through your challenges and, in turn, learn and grow as a therapist from each experience. Whether you are struggling with your queer identity, anxiety, depression, or other individual needs, we will work as a team to find comfort and solutions. Thank you for trusting me with this process. I look forward to starting your journey with you.