Featured Therapist for September, Bebe Martinez

Every month, Council for Relationships features one of our staff therapists. This month’s Featured Therapist is Bebe Martinez, MA, MSW, LSW. Learn more about her in the below interview!

What is your background? Why did you choose CFR?

I have been employed within the social service field for 12 years and have worked in educational settings as a mental health coordinator, inpatient psychiatric hospitals as a counselor, and homes providing family-based therapy. Several years after obtaining a master’s in criminal justice and working with youth involved in the juvenile justice system, I decided to return to graduate school to study social work. I am presently a licensed social worker providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families.

There are a multitude of reasons why I chose CFR, including that the organization has been around since 1932 and has built an impressive reputation, the opportunity to work alongside expert clinicians, and options to engage in post graduate training programs as well as professional development workshops.

How would clients describe you? 

I would describe myself as creative, compassionate, and curious – I think my clients would agree. I can connect with others and create a space where they feel respected and accepted.

Describe the type of client and issues with which you work best. 

I specialize in working with clients who have experienced trauma and/or abuse, which has impacted their well-being, connection with others, and self. I also provide support to those who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, communication difficulties, and relationship issues. I utilize a holistic approach, integrating aspects of expressive arts therapy and mind/body therapeutic orientations to facilitate healing, growth, and acceptance. My hope is that all people can experience improved relationships with themselves and others.

What do you consider to be the goal of therapy? How do you help your clients achieve their goals?

Some of the goals of therapy include increased self-awareness, creating or strengthening existing boundaries, improving relationships with others and self, facilitating change, managing symptoms, addressing past events and current impact, etc. The goal of therapy varies depending on the client. I believe they are the experts of their own experiences and I seek to support them in forming their own narratives by holding an authentic and safe therapeutic space where they can explore, connect, and heal.

Bebe Martinez, MA, MSW, LSW is a Staff Therapist at our Blue Bell and University City Offices; she currently sees clients via online therapy. To set-up an appointment, you can reach her at bmartinez@councilforrelationships.org or 215-382-6680 ext. 7019.