Carlos Encalada, MSW LICSW

You are a problem-solver, capable of solving complex situations, yet, some emotions and thoughts get the best of you. You identify as creative, an artist, maybe a writer who relies on intuition and vision, yet, sometimes, get lost in circles, dead ends, or worse—invisible patterns. You are a caregiver, a healer, a confidant, a mother, a father, a best friend who finds it challenging to consider your own wants and needs. You are in-between worlds, cross-cultural, interdisciplinary, a designer, a connector sometimes pulled in different directions, conflicted or doubting yourself and your relationships.

I have 15+ years of experience in social services including the Peace Corps, individual, couples, and family psychodynamic psychotherapy, and facilitating groups. I continue to develop my own self-awareness in the service of growth. My framework draws from psychoanalysis, PACT, ACT, MBCT, and the use of the Adult Attachment Interview as an intake to understand part of our attachment patterns. After a 3 year psychodynamically focused graduate program, 2 year post Master's psychoanalysis program, and additional psychoanalytic trainings, I am strongly considering becoming a formal Candidate for Psychoanalytic Training.

Brinca is the name of my practice. In Portuguese and Spanish, the base meaning refers to playfulness, a game, or taking a leap. These are apt metaphors for life. Taking a leap requires a solid base. Getting back to our own playfulness from a secure experience of ourselves both alone and in relationship. Cultivating home in mind and body is the intention.