Argenis Santamaría, LMSW is a bilingual mental health therapist whose work is deeply informed by his experiences as an immigrant and a person of Indigenous Central American heritage. He provides culturally responsive, trauma-informed care to adolescents, adults, families, and communities navigating life transitions, identity development, trauma, relationships, and emotional well-being.
Argenis believes healing is strengthened when individuals are able to explore their stories within the broader contexts of culture, family, history, and community. His therapeutic approach creates space for clients to honor their lived experiences while building resilience, self-awareness, and meaningful pathways forward. He is committed to fostering a welcoming environment where people feel seen, respected, and empowered in their healing journey.
Drawing from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-focused approaches, Argenis works collaboratively with clients to identify strengths and cultivate lasting change. He has particular interest in supporting immigrant communities, Indigenous peoples, LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, and those navigating the impacts of systemic oppression, discrimination, and marginalization. His practice is grounded in the understanding that mental health is shaped not only by individual experiences but also by the social, cultural, and environmental systems that surround us. Argenis approaches therapy through a lens of dignity, compassion, and cultural humility, recognizing the importance of honoring each person’s unique identity and worldview. He strives to help clients reconnect with their values, strengths, and sense of belonging.
In addition to his clinical work, Argenis has extensive experience in community development, systems change, and collective impact initiatives that address the root causes of health and social inequities. His background includes collaborating with diverse stakeholders to advance community well-being through population health, environmental justice, youth development, and family-centered approaches. This experience informs his understanding of how policies, institutions, and environments influence individual and collective wellness. Argenis believes that healing occurs not only within individuals but also within families, communities, and the systems that shape daily life. Through therapy, he seeks to support clients in cultivating personal growth while honoring their connection to the broader communities and ecosystems in which they live.