Luisa Cesar, LCSW

Hi! I am Luisa! I am a psychotherapist in Durham, NC, and I am so happy that you found me. As a psychotherapist, I believe every person should have the opportunity to transform their lives and have a better understanding of themselves. My passion for relationships and my belief in healing and change led me to become a clinician after years of working in the corporate world. I hold an undergraduate degree In Psychology from Elon University and a Master of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of NC.

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Relationships, Life Events, Unexpected Challenges

My approach to therapy is holistic, client-centered, and inclusive. I create an environment where the client feels heard, supported, accepted, and not judged. I believe in the process of change through a therapeutic relationship that will offer a safe space for exploration of (maybe difficult) thoughts and feelings. Perhaps the relationships in your life are not healthy or fulfilling. Maybe you made decisions in the past that you regret. Or perhaps you are stuck in a situation that doesn’t make you happy, or where no one listens to you. Or something changed in your life when you were not ready for it. While honoring your story, who you are, your choices, fears, hopes, and desires, we will work together to promote sustainable change. We will work at your pace, because I know that change can be scary. Together we will make meaning and create a future of new possibilities.

Clients I Work With

I work with children (aged 3-12), adults, couples, and families. My passion is to help families to understand the transitions that happen when children grow up and become adolescent or adults. I also enjoy working with couples who are facing challenging moments or adults who are adjusting to new careers, living in toxic relationships, or experiencing unexpected transitions. I love helping young kiddos to adjust to a new school, to deal with friendships, or learning how to identify and control their emotions. I respect and welcome people from all ethnic backgrounds, gender identities, gender expressions, and sexual orientations.

How Therapy With Me Can Help

I was trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, which means I understand that healing occurs through the therapist-client relationship while the past informs and affects our present. My approach is client-centered, meaning we will come up with a plan together that will meet your needs. My tool box contains motivational interviewing skills, cognitive-behavior tools, play therapy and mindfulness principles. I also use the Gottman Principles when working with couples. I speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish and can provide therapy in your preferred language.

On a more personal note…

When I am not seeing clients, I enjoy spending my time outdoors. I love to go on hikes or long walks. I like the warm weather, water, sun, and beaches. When the winter comes to NC, I enjoy a good book by the fireplace or trying out new recipes with my husband. We also love to hang out with our kids when they come to visit, travel to new places and meet new people.