Dr. Cindy Arenas Nieves, PhD, AAMFT Supervisor, LMFT, CCTP, CACTP

I am a doctoral-level therapist with over 16 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, seniors, couples, and families through challenges related to ADHD, trauma, PTSD, relationship dynamics, LGBTQIA+ identity exploration, military service, cultural identity, and neurodivergence, offering affirming and solution-oriented care in English and Spanish across Arizona, Florida, and New York.

Hello! I am Dr. Arenas Nieves, a doctoral-level therapist with over 16 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges with compassion, authenticity, and evidence-based care. I am licensed in Arizona, Florida, and New York, hold supervisor designations in Arizona and Florida, and am trained as a Clinical Certified Trauma Professional for both adults and youth. I am fluent in both English and Spanish, and I work with adolescents, adults, and seniors from all walks of life.

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of supporting a diverse range of clients, including military service members, veterans, and their families, as well as individuals from underrepresented communities—such as people of color, neurodivergent individuals, and LGBTQIA+ clients. I specialize in helping people navigate ADHD, family dynamics, LGBTQIA+ identity exploration, and relationship challenges, as well as anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, anger management, grief and loss, cultural and ethnic concerns, maternal and men's mental health, and chronic conditions.

What makes my approach unique is that I do not just rely on proven therapeutic methods—I also deeply honor the parts of your life that matter most to you. Whether that includes your culture, spirituality, personal values, gender identity, sexual orientation, or neurotype, I am committed to integrating these dimensions into our work together. I believe that every part of who you are deserves to be seen, valued, and understood. My goal is to create a space where you can show up fully as yourself—without fear of judgment—and where your unique story, strengths, and dreams are at the center of our therapeutic journey.

My therapeutic style is affirming, inquisitive, and solution-oriented. I am a passionate clinician who believes in collaboration and authenticity. In our sessions, I will bring a high level of curiosity about your experiences, your challenges, and your goals. I am direct and genuine in my approach, and I am deeply committed to helping you reach your wellness goals. At the same time, I approach every session with warmth, empathy, and respect for wherever you are in your journey. I want you to feel comfortable, supported, and empowered to make meaningful change.

I use evidence-based approaches that have helped countless people break free from patterns that no longer serve them. One method I often use is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps you shift the way you think about your experiences—and this shift can make a real difference in how you feel and respond to life's challenges. Another approach I incorporate is Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), which focuses on identifying practical solutions that work for you and your loved ones, helping you move forward in meaningful and sustainable ways. I also draw on trauma-informed care and culturally responsive practices to ensure that our work together honors your lived experience and personal context.

Whether you are a service member adjusting to civilian life, a parent balancing cultural expectations with modern parenting, a neurodivergent individual seeking affirming care, or someone exploring your gender or sexual identity, I bring both clinical expertise and deep respect for your lived experience. I work particularly well with clients who are ready to engage in a collaborative, solution-focused process and who value a therapist that honors the full complexity of their identity.

Here is what I want you to know: You are not alone. We all face difficult moments in our lives. And while it can feel isolating, you do not have to go through it by yourself. I am here to walk alongside you with compassion, understanding, and unwavering support. Whatever you are facing, I want you to feel heard, respected, and cared for every step of the way. I believe that therapy works best when you feel truly comfortable—when you can bring your whole self into the room without fear of judgment. My hope is that from our very first conversation, you will sense that this is a space where your story matters, where your feelings are valid, and where you are met with genuine care and understanding.

In our first session, you can expect a high level of curiosity on my part related to your development up to this point, your self-described difficulties, and your goals. This time allows us to explore whether we are a good fit for your wellness journey. If we are a good fit, I will share my clinical impressions and recommendations for care, and we will work together to develop a personalized plan for moving forward. You can expect therapy with me to feel affirming, engaging, and deeply personalized. My goal is to create a space where every part of who you are is valued, understood, and supported.

I am currently accepting new individual clients in Arizona, Florida, and New York, as well as supervisees in Arizona. My couples and family caseload is full at this time, though I do have availability in my self-pay caseload for couples and family therapy. Telehealth sessions are available for your convenience, allowing you to access care from the comfort of your own space.
If you are seeking a therapist who will honor your full identity, meet your challenges with compassion and evidence-based care, and walk beside you on your path toward healing, growth, and meaningful change, I would be honored to support you. I am here to help you break free from patterns that no longer serve you and to empower you to live a life that feels authentic, fulfilling, and aligned with your values.

Are you ready to start your journey to mental wellness? Are you ready to be your best self? Are you ready to reach your life and personal goals? I am here, and I am ready to walk alongside you.