Learn more about our clinician, Jessica M. Loya Aquino, MS, LPC!
1. What inspired you to enter this field? Since I was in my teenage years I started developing curiosity about people’s inner world and how this has an impact on how they perceive themselves and others. I find it fascinating how individuals in the same circumstance can think, feel and react completely differently and how this always has a connection with their biology and past experiences that formed each one of us.
2. Where has been your favorite place to travel and why? This is a hard question since there are so many places that I have visited that I loved. I would definitely say that the places that I always wanted to visit were Australia and New Zealand, so when I was able to go, it was a dream come true. The people were friendly and they have so many great outdoor activities that will make you have a blast. Also, another place that I would definitely recommend people to go to is Madrid because the vibe of the city is amazing, such as the food and the nightlife. Finally I would say my favorite place is Mexico City since there you have everything in one, it has a very interesting culture history, warm people, delicious food, great ambience and of course, the best weather in my opinion.
3. What is your favorite thing about living in Chicago? What I love most about Chicago is that it is a multicultural city and that there are so many different activities to do depending on the time of the year. I appreciate that people here are warm and welcoming, and that the cuisine is exquisite. I also like that you have the best of two worlds by having the city, but also being able to disconnect from it just by watching the lake and feeling more in contact with nature.
4. What are some tools you use to decompress? There are different tools that I use to decompress, one of them is working out since it helps me relax and get my mind out of things. I also love dancing. Spending time with my partner, family and friends is something that I enjoy and brings me joy.
5. Do you have any mentors? Who inspires you and why? I have had several people that I admire while doing my Masters degree from whom I learned a lot, most of them being my supervisors and from whom I learned to develop my own style as a therapist and the way that I like to work with my clients. Another person that inspired me was my first therapist since I felt very comfortable with his approach and the way he guided the sessions. Last but not least, the Fleming Family Therapy team since it has been amazing to be part of it and to see how much energy, effort, love and care is invested in each one of the clients and how these values are part of each individual here.
6. How would you recommend a client prepare for a session? The ideal would be for you to have in mind what are the things that you would want to work in therapy but if not, don’t worry about it since the first couple sessions will be for the therapist to get to know you and through those sessions you can define what your priorities are. Also, I would say that it is okay to feel nervous and to be emotional in that first session, no one will judge you for it and your therapist will appreciate your trust.
7. How do you keep up to date on industry trends and news? I continuously read to keep myself updated with different therapeutic approaches and interventions. I also do research on seminars and different courses that will allow me to continue developing my professional skills.
8. What are you most looking forward to now that it’s summer? I’m looking forward to seeing more light through the days, having warm weather, taking long walks on the lake and doing different fun activities such as trips, concerts and picnics. I will also have some close people visiting from Mexico that I’m very excited for.