Ismael Santillano, LCMHCA
Pronouns: He / Him
Service Areas: Raleigh, NC and Telehealth
Availability: Accepting new Clients
His clinical work centers on the intersection of cultural identity, mental health, and the lived experiences of those navigating life between two worlds. Ismael works with adults facing a range of concerns, including bicultural identity and acculturation stress, anxiety and trauma, intergenerational family conflict, depression, and the psychological weight of being first-generation in family, in career, and in this country.
He also holds a particular commitment to Latino men's mental health, an area where cultural stigma and a lack of culturally competent providers continue to create significant barriers to care.
Drawing on his own background as a Latino man, Ismael brings an understanding of the cultural dynamics that shape his clients' lives, including family loyalty, shifting cultural expectations, and the complex emotional experience of building identity across cultures.
His approach is grounded in cultural humility and a genuine belief that effective therapy must account for the full context of a person's life. In session, clients can expect a space that is warm, direct, and free from the need to explain or justify their cultural experience.
Ismael integrates evidence-based approaches with a deep respect for the values, traditions, and strengths that clients bring to the therapeutic relationship. In his free time, Ismael enjoys reading, watching sports, consuming good food, and spending time with family.
Appointment Types
In person
Virtual
Populations Served
Individuals ages 18+
Insurance Accepted
BCBS
Aetna
Aetna SHP
Self-pay
Sliding scale
Please note: Please note that Healing Waves Therapy & Counseling is not in network with Marketplace plans, Medicaid, or Medicare at this time.
Areas of Focus & Specialization
Anxiety and stress-related concerns
Relationship and interpersonal challenges
Life transitions and adjustment-related stress
Emotional regulation and coping skills development
Cultural and identity-related stressors
Family and relational dynamics
Support during periods of change and growth
Approaches & Certifications
Trauma-Informed, Strengths-Based Care
Culturally Responsive & Identity-Affirming Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Mindfulness-Based Interventions
Person-Centered Therapy
Collaborative & Empowerment-Focused Approach
About Ismael’s Approach
Ismael’s approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and culturally responsive. He draws from evidence-based practices to support clients navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, and personal growth. Ismael is committed to meeting clients where they are, honoring their unique identities, cultural values, and lived experiences while creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing. His goal is to help clients build insight, develop practical coping strategies, and feel empowered as they move toward meaningful and lasting change.
LET’S GET STARTED
Are you ready to transform your life?

