Hi! I'm Makeilyn Chaviano, and I’m thrilled that you’re here.

I deeply appreciate you taking the time to learn about me and what I can offer as part of a mental health program. As a psychologist, I am passionate about my work, specializing in trauma-sensitive approaches. I love to study, constantly reinvent myself, and explore new knowledge to enhance my practice.

For 17 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping hundreds of people through various projects in mental health and education. My journey into this field was shaped by personal experiences, the people I’ve met, and the injustices and pain I’ve witnessed. But just as hardship influenced my path, so did resilience, love, equity, and justice.

Trauma remains a taboo topic in many societies, often carrying a burden of shame for individuals, families, and communities. We live in a complex, incoherent, and often violent world, making it difficult to escape traumatic experiences. That’s why I strongly believe that psychotherapy is more than just nervous system regulation—it’s about understanding psychosocial interactions, navigating societal limitations, and finding ways to thrive despite them.

My Approach

My work is rooted in empathy, hope, strength, and compassion. I am committed to evidence-based therapies and neuroscience while deeply respecting culture, human rights, and spirituality. I believe in discovering and nurturing the best in each individual, allowing them to heal, grow, and reclaim their lives.

My psychotherapeutic approach is comprehensive and integrative, drawing from multiple theories to tailor treatments to each client’s unique needs. Every method I use in therapy, I have tested personally—not just in theory but through lived experience—so I can guide people through every stage of their healing journey. EMDR and DBR remain my favorite approaches, given its profound impact on trauma recovery.

My Background

My unwavering commitment to excellence and lifelong learning has led me to explore diverse fields of knowledge. I hold a Master’s Degree in Clinical and Health Psychology (UNIBE, UNINI, Tech Institute, Honors Graduation) and am pursuing a Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Clinical and Health Psychology.

As a Certified EMDR Therapist and Approved Consultant from the EMDR Association and EMDR International Association (EMDRIA), I specialize in trauma-focused therapy. Additionally, I earned a Certification in Stress and Trauma Studies from the Trauma Research Foundation under the supervision of Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, a leading expert in trauma.

Beyond psychology, I also hold a Master’s Degree in Educational Management with an emphasis on Leadership (Honor Graduation) and have pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology at the National University of Costa Rica (pending completion). Additionally, I have completed:

• ✔ A Diploma in Project Management (Technological Institute of Costa Rica)
• ✔ A Diploma in Human Trafficking (Autonomous University of Mexico)
• ✔ A Diploma in Psychoneuroimmunoendocrinology (Peruvian Institute of Psychoneuroimmunology and Mind-Body Medicine)

Throughout my career, I have undergone extensive training in clinical psychology, clinical and forensic psychological evaluation, and trauma-informed approaches. This multidisciplinary expertise enables me to approach mental health, trauma, and education with a well-rounded, integrative perspective.

I have had the privilege of collaborating with academic institutions such as Universidad Internacional de Valencia, Universidad Nacional, Universidad Hispanoamericana, Universidad La Salle, and Universidad Latina. Additionally, I have worked with governmental and non-governmental organizations dedicated to human rights, as well as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for companies across Latin America. All of this, alongside my private clinical practice, has given me extensive experience in supporting individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Beyond My Work

When I’m not working or studying, you’ll find me exploring ancient sites, learning about archaeology and cultures, or adventuring in the mountains—sometimes skiing or doing water sports (even if I’m not the best at it!).

Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey?

I feel incredibly fulfilled and grateful to help people regain control over their bodies, decisions, and their hope for the future. Healing is not easy—it requires courage, bravery, and commitment—but if you are here reading this, you’ve already taken the first big step: seeking the right information.

Do you long for peace of mind, joy, and self-confidence? Do you want to connect authentically and safely with others, building healthy, meaningful relationships?

If you are ready to take the next step toward a fulfilling and empowered life, this is the right place for you.

What I need from You

For our collaboration to be successful, you must be willing to: Invest in your mental health and wellbeing.

•  Invest in your mental health: Recognize that your emotional well-being is a priority and be willing to allocate time and resources for your personal growth.
•  Commit to your treatment process: Be open to exploring your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, even when it may be challenging.
•  Dedicate time to agreed-upon strategies and tasks: Be willing to actively participate in the therapeutic process by implementing the tools and strategies we agree upon together.
•  Create the discipline to practice the learnings: Be committed to incorporating the skills and teachings you acquire during our work together into your daily life.
•  Build the courage to address painful issues: Be willing to explore and confront the difficult aspects of your life, with the support and guidance I will offer.
•  Learn to set healthy boundaries: Recognize the importance of protecting your emotional well-being and learn to say "no" when necessary.
•  Love, accept, and value yourself: Cultivate a positive relationship with yourself, based on self-acceptance and self-care.
•  Grow despite challenges: Be open to grow and evolve, even in the face of adversity you have faced in the past.

If you’re ready to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth, I am here to support you every step of the way.

Are You Ready to Begin?

Let’s work together to build the life you deserve.