About Iris Herrero

“When we talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.”

- Fred Rogers

 

Background

​I received my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) at Alliant International University and my Masters in Psychology with Emphasis in Art Therapy from Sonoma State University.

My previous experience includes working in Community Mental Health settings. This includes Sofia Counseling Center in Palo Alto, CA, where I worked with a multicultural population, the majority of whom had experienced trauma. Previously, I served as mental health specialist with Instituto Familiar de la Raza, - community mental health clinic serving Latinos in San Francisco – where I provided therapy and conducted groups with Latinos living with HIV and also worked at their outpatient mental health clinic, where I provided therapy to individuals, families and children.

My previous experience also includes a six year masters internship at Family Service Agency of Sonoma County, where I provided therapy to individuals, families and children.

Other experience included working in private practice as a clinical art therapist.

 

Interests

I am interested in spirituality, guiding individuals through inner transformations by examining existential questions, and the body-mind connection. I facilitate simple art-making experiences as a way to help clients increase their awareness and ability to find solutions to their problems and overcome life’s challenges. Along the way, I support clients in making the changes that they are seeking by developing practical strategies to achieve their therapy goals.

My practice of Jin Shin Jyutsu (energy work), an ancient Japanese healing art, has informed my interest in somatic/body-based therapies I use with clients.

 

Research

My research has focused on the treatment of psychological trauma, art therapy, and the role of the body-mind connection in healing from psychological trauma, anxiety and depression. This includes, my doctoral dissertation: Body-based Art Psychotherapy: A Case Study Addressing Trauma in a Mexican Immigrant Batterer https://www.proquest.com/openview/afc8bd4c8601d563be2023521e359bb1/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750) And, my master’s thesis, The use of imagery as a resource for a Mexican immigrant woman experiencing the effects of complex trauma, Sonoma State University, 2008.

Testimonials

"I am very pleased to share my experience of the inner growth resulting from my more than two years of therapy with Dr. Iris Herrero, who was always very caring, respectful and sensitive. Thanks to her support, I developed a deep sense of trust that greatly contributed to a positive outcome far exceeding my expectations. I highly recommend Dr. Herrero to anyone who is committed to inner growth."

Gabriel D.

"Iris helped me to work through trauma from my past and to overcome the deep pain that I had been dealing with. Working with her I began to feel the freedom and confidence and began to express my feelings my fears resulting from the trauma which did not allow me trust. Thank you Iris for your valuable contribution to my personal growth and improvement."

Lidia I.

Book a Call

Book your 30-minute free consultation now to discuss how a therapy with Iris Herrero can help you.