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Hello. My name is Aleccio Valladares, pronounced Alex-E-O. I was born in Los Angeles, CA, but I now live in Chino, CA, away from the city.

I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts from Cal State Long Beach and work as a Graphic Designer.

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One of the questions I get asked most frequently is why I transitioned from an artistic career path to one of mental health. I have undergone my mental health journey and was fortunate enough to meet some fantastic mental health experts, and thanks to their help, I was able to overcome difficult periods of my life.

Today, my career does not fulfill an innate need to forge bonds and connections with those in my community. By becoming a therapist, I hope to make positive changes and promote the importance of mental health for overall well-being.

At this point, I'm not certain what population I want to work with, but I do know I want to specialize in depression and anxiety disorders.

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As part of my current therapy, I have begun implementing many different techniques to better navigate my stress. One of these coping mechanisms is journaling. Although I don't practice it daily, I journal when I feel overwhelmed by life. It has proven to be an excellent way for me to articulate my feelings and relieve some of the pressures of life.

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One of my passions is creating artwork. Sometimes it's digital; sometimes, it's traditional. I posted an older painting I made for a children's book illustration. I currently do this and will continue to do once I am working as a professional therapist.

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After school, I hope to open my private practice and work with a non-profit organization serving the Latinx community.

I have also considered furthering my education to receive my PhD, but I am unsure If that is the right path for me.