A Note From Christina:
It can often feel like life is a non-stop invitation for worry; our lives are filled with responsibilities that can feel overwhelming. Balancing the demands of school, work, and family can be challenging. Maybe you’ve discovered that some of your coping methods aren’t working as well as they used to? Have you reached a point where you feel it’s time to reassess your lifestyle and make some changes? I’d be delighted to help you.
I view therapy as a means of deepening self-knowledge, part of which involves recognizing the messages your body sends you. Well-versed in the language of the body, I facilitate the process of reintegration—learning to listen to what your body has to tell you, translating these messages, and using the information from your somatic experience in your decision-making process.
My Approach:
I incorporate multiple therapeutic modalities in our work together. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) engages the higher brain systems, helping us recognize thought patterns that don’t serve us well. Somatic approaches engage the inner brain, allowing us to communicate with our autonomic nervous system to relax the body and alleviate physical symptoms of stress. By learning methods to communicate with our nervous systems and recognizing common patterns of anxious or depressive thoughts, we can ideally live with greater ease.
While I enjoy the conversational component of therapy, I structure our sessions to incorporate mindfulness. I believe we can achieve greater mental health and well-being when we slow down enough to notice our patterns, both behavioral and physical, and give ourselves the space and time to feel our feelings. I incorporate breathing techniques and mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques as part of my approach to treating anxiety.
Specializations:
While I have experience helping a diverse range of people, I have a special place in my heart for working with women. I bring a feminist consciousness into my work, supporting women in various stages of life as they navigate their experiences in the culture of the United States. Additionally, I am committed to supporting individuals in exploring issues related to sexuality and gender, providing a safe and affirming space for all.
I am devoted to helping people recover from difficult life experiences. Trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), I use this evidence-based technique to help resolve the emotional charge associated with distressing memories. EMDR can be particularly effective for those dealing with PTSD, anxiety, and related issues. If you have experienced a consent violation or need support coping with the aftermath of a challenging event, I am here to guide you on your healing journey.
I have a special understanding of the gifts and challenges of ADHD. I work with individuals and couples who have received a formal diagnosis or have interest-based attention and focusing skills. I also support people recovering from high-control groups, helping them reclaim their autonomy and sense of self.
Additionally, I help individuals explore their relationship with substances and support those who are coping with substance misuse or are tapering off medications. My approach aims to provide a compassionate space for reflection and growth, aiding in the journey toward healthier coping strategies and overall well-being.
If anything you have read here resonates with you, please consider booking a consultation so we can see if we're a good fit. I look forward to meeting you and learning more about you!
Trainings and Certificates
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level One, April 2023
- Principles and Practices of Sex Therapy with Ian Kerner, December 2023
- EMDR Training, Sonoma Psychotherapy Institute 2018
- 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training, 2009
Education & Licensure
- Masters in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Somatic Psychology, Californian Institute of Integral Studies, 2014
- Bachelors in Interdisciplinary Studies, California Institute of Integral Studies, 2011
- California Marriage and Family Therapy License #105663
PRONOUNS
She/Her/Hers
BASED IN
Palo Alto 🌁
LICENSED IN
California
SPECIALTIES
Anxiety
Career
Depression
Love, Dating + Relationships
Premarital Counseling
Couples Counseling
Trauma Recovery
Self Esteem
LGBTQ Affirming
Substance Abuse + Addiction
Fertility + Family Building
THE LATEST FROM OUR BLOG:
Featured In: