Romali Fernando Practicum Student

Hi, I’m Romali Fernando Practicum Student. I believe therapy should feel like a safe landing place; a space where you can breathe, reflect, and begin to understand yourself more fully. As a warm and friendly therapist, my goal is to provide support and encouragement as you navigate life’s challenges. I will help you uncover the patterns that may be holding you back while supporting you in building a life of clarity, balance, and purpose.

My approach is rooted in creating a space where no thought or feeling is “too much.” In our sessions, we’ll work together to identify your goals, strengthen your communication skills, and explore ways to shift negative thought patterns. I often use CBT and phenomenological approaches to help clients gain a better understanding of themselves and their circumstances. Because I come from a multicultural background, I bring that perspective into my work, making space for clients from diverse identities and life experiences to feel seen and supported. I am also LGBTQ+ affirming and believe in meeting every client exactly where they are.

I especially enjoy working with adolescents and young adults who are navigating life transitions, stress, and uncertainty. I also have experience working with children and young adults on the Autism Spectrum and clients living with ADHD. My ideal client isn’t someone who “has it all figured out”, it's someone who’s ready to take meaningful steps toward change. Whether you are an individual feeling weighed down by anxiety or depression, or a couple looking to improve your relationship, I’m committed to helping you uncover new strategies for growth.

Clients often tell me that they leave sessions feeling more hopeful and in touch with their own strengths. While therapy can be challenging at times, it is also incredibly rewarding. Reach out today, and together we will decipher what feels overwhelming, find strategies that work for you, and focus on the parts of life that bring you closer to the version of yourself you want to be.

Favorite Books

Personally, one of my favorites is Normal People by Sally Rooney, because its honest depiction of complicated relationships is something most of us can relate to in one way or another. For clients, I often recommend Jennette McCurdy’s memoir I’m Glad My Mom Died. It’s raw, funny, and real, showing how someone can move through pain and still find healing and growth.

Hobbies

Outside of therapy, I love to crochet, read, and spend time with my three cats. I also enjoy shopping, being out in nature, and most recently, I’ve gotten into birding with my fiancé; it’s a new adventure we’re enjoying together!

Funny Story

I have 3 cats and one of them is named Stinky! He was originally named Pinkman (from Breaking Bad), but then my fiance started calling him Stinkman and that eventually turned into Stinky. We never call him by his original name anymore! We like to think he was destined to be named Stinky.

Why I’m a Therapist

I became a therapist because I know firsthand how transformative therapy can be. I’ve been in the client’s chair and have experienced the relief and growth that comes from being able to share thoughts and feelings openly in a safe space. Now, I feel honored to create that same safe space for others, helping them discover resilience, joy, and change in their own lives."