Miguel Arellano, Professional Counselor Associate, MS, QMHP

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I believe that healing happens when people feel heard, understood, and empowered to reclaim authorship of their lives. I view counseling as a collaborative process that honors people's lived experiences and capacity for growth.

I do my best to create an affirming and compassionate space where clients can explore their experiences, uncover strengths, make meaning of their stories, and take actions toward living lives that feel more authentic and aligned with their values.

My counseling approach is integrative and informed by critical ecological perspectives, drawing from person-centered, narrative, cognitive behavioral, and existential therapies. I care deeply about fairness, justice, and understanding how the systems and environments around us shape mental health and well-being.

Growing up as a low-income, first-generation immigrant, I witnessed how systemic inequities can impact mental health, well-being, and opportunities across generations. These experiences continue to drive my commitment to helping people improve their own quality of life while contributing to a more just and compassionate world.

In addition to my clinical training, I have spent more than a decade working in higher education and continue to serve full-time in the field. I am a 2024 National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) Minority Fellow, a program dedicated to increasing access to culturally responsive mental health services in minoritized communities.