Meet your Guide:

Monique Aquino, MA, LMFT

The Origin of My Journey

Every great traveler knows that the most difficult paths are rarely walked alone. My own journey into the world of therapy began as the daughter of immigrants. When my parents arrived in the U.S. in pursuit of a better life, we often found ourselves navigating the "uncharted territory" of cultural isolation.

The turning point came when we were embraced by a community of neighbors and friends who helped us find our bearings. That experience was my first "map"—it taught me that the quality of our lives is directly tied to the quality of our connections. Today, my greatest joy is helping individuals and couples navigate their own landscapes to find peace, resilience, and deeply fulfilling relationships.

Professional Credentials & Experience

With over 20 years of experience in the field, I serve as a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My career has taken me through diverse terrains—from intensive in-home therapy and juvenile justice to outpatient clinical care.

I hold a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy. Throughout my two decades of practice, I have helped children, teens, and adults navigate:

• Anxiety & Depression

• Grief & Life Transitions

• Trauma & Family Conflict

• Relationship Dynamics (Specialty)

As a specialist in relationship dynamics, I am trained in Gottman Method Levels 1 and 2. I help couples work through high-conflict "storms," increase their connection, and create a "safe harbor" within their partnership.

My Compass: Approach & Philosophy

Research shows that the strongest predictor of a successful journey (therapy) is the bond between the traveler and the guide. I provide a non-judgmental, strength-based space where we collaborate as a team.

As a systemic therapist, I utilize evidence-based tools to help you recalibrate:

• The Route: Brief Solution-Focused Therapy & CBT.

• The Connection: Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) & Systemic Family Therapy.

• The Maintenance: Practical techniques for emotional regulation, including mindfulness, meditation, and self-compassion scripts.

Beyond the Trail

When I’m not in the therapy room, I am navigating the beautiful, chaotic journey of motherhood with my two "mini-humans" and my husband. To keep my own internal compass steady, I turn to the outdoors. I’ve been a runner since middle school—whether I’m racing for a cure or simply running to de-stress. My heart (and my home) is rounded out by my two dogs, Luna and Leo, and a collection of plants that I enjoy spoiling daily.