Dr. Christina Cortez

I'm Dr. Christina Cortez, a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in Santa Barbara, California. Grounded in a humanistic and client-centered approach, I'm committed to meeting individuals where they are emotionally, culturally, and spiritually.

My practice is built on the principles of empathy, respect, and collaboration, with a strong focus on creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing and personal growth.

I provide bilingual (English and Spanish) psychotherapy for adolescents and adults, integrating evidence-based modalities such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

My work is deeply informed by multicultural awareness and sensitivity to the diverse cultural and religious values clients bring into the therapeutic space.

With a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, I've served in various clinical settings including community mental health, outpatient treatment, and education.

My professional mission centers on honoring the lived experiences of each client while supporting their path toward resilience, empowerment, and meaningful change.

My approach to therapy is rooted in compassion, which I consider the cornerstone of all healing. I strive to create a warm, respectful, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported exactly as they are. I believe that meaningful growth begins when we feel safe enough to show up with our full selves.

I integrate a humanistic and client-centered framework with mindfulness-based practices and Somatic Experiencing, helping clients reconnect with their bodies, regulate their nervous systems, and develop deeper awareness of their emotional and physical experiences. This somatic focus supports healing from trauma and stress on both psychological and physiological levels.

In addition, I draw from evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, CBT, and DBT, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs, values, and cultural backgrounds of the individuals I work with.

My therapeutic style is collaborative and flexible, guided by the belief that each person holds the innate capacity for healing and resilience.

Above all, my goal is to walk alongside clients with presence and compassion, supporting them in building insight, strength, and meaningful connection in their lives.

Clients can expect to experience greater emotional balance, clarity of thought, improved daily functioning, and more meaningful relationships. Through our work together, many clients report enhanced mood, reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma, and an increased ability to manage stress and navigate life’s challenges.

My goal is to support clients in reconnecting with themselves physically, emotionally, and relationally so they can engage more fully in the activities and relationships that matter most to them. With time and consistent support, clients often develop deeper self-awareness, improved emotional regulation, and a greater sense of confidence and resilience.

Ultimately, sessions are designed to help clients feel more grounded, empowered, and aligned with their values, leading to long term well-being both internally and in their external lives.