Dr. Carol Chu-Peralta chose a profession in psychology because she has a passion for helping others. The Founder, Clinical Director, and Psychologist of Center for Resiliency watched her parents emigrate to a new country, settle down, and raise their children while working overtime regularly—which profoundly impacted her.
“My very first case I was ever assigned was a very young child who had survived several forms of trauma. He was a vibrant little one, curious and as smart as they come! The English language and psychotherapy were foreign to him, but he learned to trust me enough to take him on a journey of healing. I speak Spanish (thanks, Mom and Dad!), so I was able to conduct his therapy sessions in his native language.”
Dr. Carol became fascinated with the psychological aspect of immigration and its intersection with trauma and began to dive into research on the subject. Soon, she started presenting lectures at various schools and organizations on the topics, which led to her pursuing a specialization in trauma therapies while simultaneously pursuing training in a generalist model for therapy and psychological evaluations (treatment for depression, anxiety, learning disabilities, autism, etc.)
“I got into this field to help change the trajectory of people’s lives, especially those who have been impacted by trauma. And I remain fervently dedicated to continuing in this field to impact my patients’ lives positively as they move forward.”
In her practice, Dr. Carol constantly witnesses the effects of the high-pressure, fast-paced culture that we all live in. “Expectations are so high. People have difficulties setting boundaries with themselves and others and have a tough time practicing self-compassion because they are trying to pursue unrealistic dreams of perfection.”
Earlier this year, Center for Resiliency moved to a new space at 160 Summit Avenue in Montvale and is welcoming new patients to the practice. Dr. Carol and her team of therapists help their patients address issues such as trauma and anxiety with results-driven treatments backed by scientific evidence.
“The new office affords us a larger, inviting new space for our staff to share together as colleagues,” she says. “Even more importantly, it is so energizing to see our CFR patients—of all ages—in our waiting room. Handing a small child a toy or coloring book and serving teens and adults a hot beverage and snack are some of the highlights of my day.” The space also affords the room to host events and support groups. “It’s an inviting and relaxing space for everyone we serve—that was my vision, and my patients deserve it!”
Dr. Carol’s personal philosophies are integral to how she manages her practice and life. “Regardless of fancy titles, lifestyle, or what ‘baggage’ we have, we are humans first; the clinicians in my practice connect with each patient on a human level. Our expertise in psychology,--mixed with compassion and a touch of humor—are what bring progress and healing to our patients.”
The value of lifelong learning is resonant throughout Dr. Carol’s life. “Keep learning. If you’re going to call yourself an expert, you must think of yourself as an eternal student. Always stay apprised of the ever-evolving research in your related field. There are always new things to learn from your patients, friends, colleagues, family, and personal life experiences. My own children motivate me to do better every day—at work and as a human!”
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