Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jackilyn Garces, Ms, Rmhci. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Jackilyn , thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Overcoming imposter syndrome is an ongoing process—a continuous commitment to honoring yourself and your strengths. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve felt inadequate or like I wasn’t good enough, especially as a new therapist fresh out of graduate school. But here’s what’s worked for me: having a solid support system. Your tribe—the people who genuinely cheer you on, recognize your talents, and remind you that you are enough—can make all the difference. They help you see what you bring to the table, even when self-doubt clouds your vision.
Another thing that’s been a game-changer for me is taking time to reflect on my past accomplishments. We get so caught up in where we think we should be that we forget to celebrate how far we’ve already come. Looking back on my wins—big and small—helped me realize that I’ve overcome challenges before, and I can do it again.
Lastly, reframing my self-talk and shifting my perspective has been pivotal. Instead of obsessing over my insecurities, I’ve learned to focus on the value I bring to others, whether it’s through my work, my ideas, or simply being present. That shift—away from self-criticism and toward purpose—has helped me grow and thrive, one step at a time.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m a Latina mental health therapist based in Miami, Florida, dedicated to helping individuals navigate stress and anxiety while breaking free from the grips of perfectionism and people-pleasing. I love working with people who are going through significant life transitions—whether it’s starting or graduating school, becoming a parent, or navigating a breakup. These moments can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to help you work through them.
Being a therapist can be tough—it’s not for the faint of heart—but it’s incredibly rewarding. I feel privileged to witness the transformation that happens when clients become more self-aware, self-reliant, and confident. It’s truly inspiring to be part of that journey.
I currently work at an outpatient mental health clinic, but I’m also in the process of building my own private practice, Purely Planted Psychotherapy LLC. The name Purely Planted came from my desire to create a safe space where people can grow. Just like a plant needs time, nurturing, and care to flourish, so do you. My goal is to support your growth, at your own pace, so you can bloom into your fullest potential.
Lately, I’ve been diving deep into the business side of things, learning the ins and outs of running a private practice while connecting with other amazing therapists. I’m really excited to launch my website soon and start accepting clients through Purely Planted.
One of the things I’m most excited about is an upcoming wellness workshop I’m hosting with a local community creative, Erica Lores. This workshop combines the therapeutic benefits of clay making with learning about perfectionism and self-acceptance. It not only offers a hands-on activity but also a tangible reminder that embracing imperfections can be beautiful, reinforcing the importance of self-compassion in mental health. It’s going to be a unique and creative way for participants to explore self-awareness, and I can’t wait to share it!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, I’d say one of the most impactful skills I’ve developed is learning how to advocate for myself. There will be moments in your journey when you’ll need to defend your worth and communicate your value—whether it’s negotiating a salary, addressing a crossed boundary, or seeking out challenges in your role. Learning to advocate for yourself in a respectful yet confident way can transform the conversations you have. It teaches others to take your voice seriously. This wasn’t always easy for me; I used to fear confrontation. But with time, I learned how to stand up for myself with clarity and conviction, and it’s made all the difference.
Another vital skill is learning how to say “no”—in other words, setting boundaries. Early in my career, I had a tendency to say yes to every opportunity. Fresh out of graduate school, I was eager for experience and afraid of missing out. Over time, I realized the importance of guarding my “yes” for opportunities that align with my values and goals. Saying yes out of habit, scarcity, or desperation can spread you too thin and cause you to miss out on opportunities that truly matter. Now, I take the time to assess the value and return on investment of every opportunity before committing. My advice? Be intentional with your yeses—they are powerful.
Lastly, networking has been incredibly impactful. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and connect with people whose interests align with yours. You never know who you’ll meet or what value they might bring to the table. I used to dread networking and felt awkward introducing myself to a room full of strangers. Over time, I learned to show up authentically as myself, and that shift made all the difference. Authentic energy attracts people who want to connect with you for who you are. Networking has brought me not only career opportunities but also mentors and friendships that I deeply value.
If you’re just starting out, my advice is to invest in building strong communication and social skills. One of the most life-changing books I’ve read is Captivate: The Science of Succeeding with People by Vanessa Van Edwards. It’s packed with practical tips to help you navigate social situations and make meaningful connections. Trust me—you’ll thank me later!
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
My ideal client is someone who, on the surface, seems to have it all together—they’re ambitious, hardworking, and often the one others turn to for support. They’re the rock for everyone else, always being “the strong one,” but beneath that strength is someone who feels the weight of stress, anxiety, and self-doubt. They thrive on recognition and praise but often tie their self-worth to their achievements, leaving little room for imperfection or rest.
They have a lighthearted, fun side and love to joke around, using humor as a way to connect and sometimes as a shield to mask deeper struggles. They’re perfectionists, striving for excellence in everything they do, but this drive often comes at the expense of their own well-being. They struggle with people-pleasing, saying yes to others even when it means neglecting their own needs, and feel drained from always putting others first.
Despite their challenges, they’re self-aware and ready for change. They crave a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can let their guard down, explore their emotions, and work through the stress of always needing to be “enough.” They want to learn how to set boundaries, quiet their inner critic, and find balance without losing their ambition or sense of humor.
Contact Info:
- Website: Coming soon!
- Instagram: @purelyplantedtherapist
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackiegarces/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@purelyplantedtherapist
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