Today we’d like to introduce you to Marla Guadamuz
Hi MARLA, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born in La Ceiba, Honduras, and at the age of three, my mother brought me to the United States. We settled in Liberty City, Miami, Florida, where I grew up as the eldest of three daughters. My mother worked tirelessly to support us, and from a young age, I took on significant responsibilities, caring for my younger siblings. This experience, while formative, was challenging. In 1998, I faced a pivotal moment when my daughter was born prematurely, leading me to drop out of high school. At 18, I married and embraced the role of a stay-at-home mom. Two years later, I pursued training as a tax preparer, a profession I continue to this day, running my own small tax business.
In 2016, as my eldest daughter graduated high school, I felt a renewed desire to further my education and aspired to become a mental health therapist. After discussing it with my husband, I enrolled at Keiser University, completing my bachelor’s degree in psychology in December 2019. Taking a year off to gather the courage for graduate school, I began exploring options in late 2020. A close friend, Valencia Taylor, recommended Walden University. Although I considered St. Leo University and UCF, Walden’s curriculum suited my busy schedule as a mother, wife, and business owner. In February 2021, I was thrilled to receive my acceptance letter. My journey toward becoming a mental health therapist was becoming a reality. By the summer of 2024, I graduated from Walden University with a Master of Social Work.
During my studies, I completed three invaluable practicum and internship placements. I began as a case manager at HelpNow of Osceola, supporting domestic violence survivors. Subsequently, I spent a semester at 3 AM Counseling. Finally, I joined Mental Wealth Tribe LLC, under the mentorship of Yasmine Dominique-Merveus, LCSW-QS, CIMHP, the owner and my supervisor. This experience affirmed my passion for private practice. Now, as a licensed registered clinical social worker intern, I am on the path to becoming a fully licensed clinical social worker, a goal I aim to achieve within two years.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been a smooth road, There were a lot of times where I thought my life was just to be a mom and nothing else.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am dedicated and highly experienced Spanish-speaking therapist with a deep passion for helping individuals navigate their emotional and psychological challenges. Her journey in psychology began at Keiser University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree and gained a solid understanding of human behavior and its impact on mental health. Building on this foundation, Marla pursued her master’s degree at Walden University, where she further honed her clinical skills and developed a profound appreciation for cultural sensitivity and community dynamics.
my career has been marked by her commitment to serving diverse populations, with a special focus on the Spanish-speaking community. Her fluency in Spanish allows her to create a welcoming and supportive environment for clients, enabling them to communicate freely in their native language. She has extensive experience providing counseling in areas such as domestic violence, veterans’ issues, anxiety, depression, and support for late teens. unique blend of academic knowledge and practical experience equips her to offer empathetic and effective care, helping her clients achieve meaningful progress in their personal journeys.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
never to give me up, and that there is always a possibility you want to better yourself no matter how long it takes.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mymentalwealthtribe.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healingwithmarla/
- Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists?search=marla+guadamuz
Image Credits
all photos are originally taken by me
