Marcela Vargas is a native of Peru that transplanted to Charlotte, North Carolina. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at UNC- Charlotte. Marcela began working in education where her students became the driving force for her to return to UNCC to pursue her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Marcela saw her personal struggles in many other first-generation students and has used this to connect with others. She has a passion for breaking the negative stigma of mental health in black and brown communities. “Everyone can benefit from therapy”. Marcela uses a person-centered theoretical approach to connect with clients and combines cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and mindfulness techniques to help clients reach their goals. In her free time, Marcela enjoys exercising and spending time with her family and new puppy.