Grief counselors and therapists in Minnesota

Welcome. I’m glad you’re here.

Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming. I aim to create a safe, collaborative, and grounded space from the beginning. I meet clients where they are and move at a pace that feels manageable and respectful.

I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families experiencing anxiety, trauma, addiction, and relationship challenges. I also specialize in complex and developmental trauma.

I support clients in integrating their spiritual and cultural values into therapy when desired and clinically appropriate. I was born in New Orleans and bring a culturally informed perspective shaped by my Latina, Indigenous, Christian, and Sephardic Jewish backgrounds.

I became a therapist because I have a deep commitment to helping people recognize and build their own strengths, especially during periods of feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected. I understand that seeking support takes courage, and I work to create a space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported throughout the process.

I earned a Master of Social Work (MSW) and PhD from Tulane University, as well as a Master of Public Health (MPH) from Tulane University’s School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Louisiana and Texas, and a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Minnesota. I also hold a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC), Licensed Prevention Professional (LPP), and Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP).

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over two decades of clinical experience. My work has focused on helping people understand themselves more deeply, strengthen relationships, heal from difficult experiences, and create meaningful change in their lives.

I believe lasting change happens when we move beyond simply understanding a problem intellectually and begin experiencing ourselves differently. Together, we explore patterns, emotional and bod responses, beliefs, and relationship dynamics that may have developed as adaptations earlier in life but are no longer serving you.

Clients often describe me as warm, direct, engaged, and insightful. I tend to be an active therapist who asks questions, offers observations, and helps connect patterns that may be difficult to see from the inside. While therapy can be challenging, I believe it should also feel collaborative, practical, and grounded in hope.

Hi, I’m Cristina, a bilingual therapist (English/Spanish) with over 15 years of experience supporting children, families, and adults through life’s challenges. I hold a Ph.D. in Gender Studies and a Master’s in Counseling Psychology, and I’m licensed as an independent clinical social worker in Minnesota. I bring both professional expertise and personal warmth to help clients feel safe, respected, and understood.

Making the decision to seek help can be one of the hardest parts, so congratulations on taking this first step! My practice is person-centered and grounded in values of empathy, compassion, and resilience. I strive for my clients to feel heard and validated. I feel strongly that prioritizing mental health is a cornerstone of self care; you cannot take care of anyone else if you don't take care of yourself first.

I am a passionate lifelong learner who brings a warm, adaptable personality to every session. Our work is deeply rooted in your personal growth, with a shared goal of long-term health and healing.