Kimberly Perez-Lucero, M.A., LAC
Licensed Associate Counselor
Tel: 201-381-1591
Email: kimberlyperez@beautifuljc.com
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ABOUT KIM
My parents immigrated from Mexico to pursue a life in the United States. Thus, early on in my life, I had a passion for social justice, advocacy, and mental health. As a bilingual therapist, I provide direct services in English and Spanish. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Ramapo College of New Jersey with a minor in Latin American Studies. I went on to use my degree to work with children and adults with developmental or intellectual disabilities in different capacities.
I received my Master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from William Paterson University while working as a case manager for adults with developmental disabilities. Being a research assistant in the Culture and Resilience lab where I combined my academic and clinical passions by leading a Spanish-speaking group for recently arrived immigrant youth. I dove into clinical work at the Trauma Recovery Center in Jersey City Medical Center and spent time in schools via Full-Service Community Schools. My experience working in both locations has equipped me with the ability to work with communities representing varying racial, ethnic, and sexual identifiers through cultural humility, employing open mindedness and empathy.
I am a dog mom of a golden retriever and I enjoy cooking and going for long walks! I have a love for live music, dancing, and hosting gatherings. I have gone skydiving and traveled to many countries. I love to take positive risks, experience new things, and spend time with loved ones.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
I have provided services to a range of people across the lifespan. For all clients, I use a Strength-Based approach while also using evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy techniques. I also focus on attachment styles of clients to understand their relationships with others. With my multicultural approach and a focus on understanding past experiences that affect the individual’s present experience, I help my clients gain insight and self-awareness to understand themselves in relation to others.
I believe that people are unique, and their therapy should be catered to their own individual experiences. Thus, my goal is to create an environment where clients can feel comfortable, heard, and safe. My experiences have allowed me to make positive connections with people and learn how to adapt to different settings and populations. I am dedicated to giving each client the empathy and quality of care that they deserve.
CERTIFICATIONS AND AWARDS:
- Licensed Associate Counselor
- Ramapo College of New Jersey’s Faculty Award of Distinction in the Psychology program
- American Psychological Association (APA) Minority Fellowship Program Recipient 2022-2023 in Services for Transition Age Youth (STAY)
- William Paterson University’s Excellence in Graduate Studies Award in the Psychology program
MEMBERSHIPS:
- American Psychological Association
- Society for the Advancement of Psychotherapy – APA Division 29