We recently connected with Dr. Desiree Barrionuevo and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Dr. Desiree, so excited to have you with us today and we are really interested in hearing your thoughts about how folks can develop their empathy? In our experience, most folks want to be empathic towards others, but in a world where we are often only surrounded by people who are very similar to us, it can sometimes be a challenge to develop empathy for others who might not be as similar to us. Any thoughts or advice?
My empathy grew through a mix of personal experiences and the meaningful connections I have built with others along the way. I have seen firsthand how powerful it can be to feel like your voice matters, and those moments left a lasting impression on me. Over time, I have come to realize that empathy is not just a trait. It is something that deepens when we pay attention, show care, and hold space for others without judgment. Today, it is the foundation of how I work with clients as a therapist, creating a space where they can feel heard, supported, and understood as they navigate life.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am the founder behind Serenity Collaborative Therapy, where I guide adolescents, young adults, and families through life’s challenges. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy, offering clients a supportive space to explore their lived experiences. I specialize in relationships and social-emotional learning, helping clients develop a stronger sense of self and improve their connections with others. I find it most rewarding to witness the moments when clients experience their own breakthroughs. I built my practice on the belief that a breakthrough is reachable for anyone willing to put in the work to make it happen. With grace, care, and hope, healing is always possible. I love helping clients take those first steps toward the change they want to see in their lives.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my life thus far, three qualities that have had the most impact are empathy, patience, and a commitment to continuous learning. Empathy helps me truly meet clients where they are, while patience reminds me that growth and change take time. Continuous learning keeps me adaptable and ensures I provide the best support clients deserve. My advice to others, especially new therapists in the field, is to practice these qualities intentionally: listen deeply, give yourself grace through challenges, and remain open to learning from every experience. Gradually, these habits strengthen your skills, deepening your understanding of yourself and others.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
My most significant area of growth this year has been developing confidence in myself, both as a therapist and in my personal life. I have discovered how important it is to lean into my experience and intuition, whether I am supporting clients or making decisions in my own life. Growing in this way has helped me approach my work with greater clarity and presence. It has also strengthened my ability to navigate personal challenges with more self-assurance and peace of mind. It is essential to believe in your potential and actively work towards it, as this can create the meaningful change you envision for yourself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.serenitycollaborative.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serenitycollaborativetherapy
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/serenitycollaborativetherapy
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