Therapy for Teens & Adults near Alhambra | Cristina Lugo, LCSW

Finding the right therapist near Alhambra can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own.  I offer trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and science-backed care for teens and adults who are navigating anxiety, burnout, depression, low self-confidence and trauma. Much of the time, these challenges impact school, work and life satisfaction but with the right support, you can get on track with your future goals. With more than 15 years of experience, I specialize in supporting women and girls, LGBTQIA+ individuals and those with multicultural and second generation identities. 

How it works

Book an intro call

Our first call is simply a chance to connect. You’ll have space to share what feels most important while I listen carefully and ask questions to better understand your world. There’s no pressure to dive into everything at once. The focus is on creating comfort and safety.

Personalized, one-on-one sessions

Each person brings unique experiences and goals. Therapy with me is flexible and tailored. We'll create a plan that reflects your current needs and can shift as your life changes. My goal is to keep the process aligned with what matters most to you.

Evidence-based therapeutic techniques

In our work, I blend methods that are both evidence-based and creative. That means you will have access to tools like EMDR, IFS (parts work), ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) and DBT but also space for reflection, expression, and imagination. The mix allows you to develop practical skills for anxiety, depression, or trauma while also reconnecting with your inner strength and creativity.

Explore my therapy services and specializations

  • Individual Therapy for Teens and Adults

    This is a confidential space to finally drop the mask and be real about what’s been weighing on you. Whether it’s anxiety, identity confusion, burnout, or past pain, therapy helps you sort through it all with care. Together, we build tools that actually stick, so you can feel more balanced, grounded, and connected in everyday life.

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  • Group Therapy for Teens

    Group therapy creates a space where teens feel seen, heard, and understood by others their age. It’s not about comparison or pressure, it's about connection. Through supportive conversations and guided tools, teens develop stronger social skills, reduce isolation, and realize they’re not alone in what they’re facing.

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  • EMDR Therapist

    Trauma doesn’t just go away with time. EMDR offers a structured, evidence-based method to help your brain process memories that feel stuck. As we work through past pain together, you’ll find that what once felt overwhelming begins to lose power allowing you to feel safer, more present, and emotionally free.

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  • Anxiety Therapy

    If your mind constantly feels overstimulated or full of noise, anxiety therapy helps you turn the volume down. We’ll explore where the anxiety comes from, practice calming techniques, and build routines that help you feel more in control. Over time, you’ll sleep better, think more clearly, and move through your days with more calm and confidence.

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  • Therapy for Teenage Depression

    Depression in teens can show up as irritability, disinterest, or emotional numbness. In therapy, we create a space where teens can speak without fear of judgment or being misunderstood. They learn to name their emotions, cope with heaviness, and slowly reconnect with the joy and energy that once felt out of reach.

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  • Academic Burnout

    When school feels like a nonstop treadmill, burnout therapy helps you pause, breathe, and reflect. We focus on setting healthier goals, managing perfectionism, and bringing back a sense of purpose to academics. The result isn’t just doing better in school it’s doing better while feeling good about yourself.Depression in teens can show up as irritability, disinterest, or emotional numbness. In therapy, we create a space where teens can speak without fear of judgment or being misunderstood. They learn to name their emotions, cope with heaviness, and slowly reconnect with the joy and energy that once felt out of reach.

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  • Post-Grad Depression

    Graduating is supposed to feel exciting, but it can also leave you feeling lost, anxious, or directionless. Therapy helps you process that gap between expectation and reality. Together, we explore your values, calm the inner pressure, and create a path forward that actually feels fulfilling, not just socially acceptable.

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  • Teenage Trauma

    Carrying trauma can feel like living with invisible weight. For teens, this often shows up in behavior, emotional dysregulation, or distrust. In therapy, we create a space where they can feel safe again safe to talk, feel, and heal. As they process what happened, they begin to trust themselves more and navigate the world with strength and self-worth.

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I serve teens and adults near Alhambra

I work with clients from Alhambra and surrounding areas including Pasadena and Northeast LA. Whether you’re a student facing school pressures, a young adult navigating identity, or a parent supporting your teen, therapy can give you tools to feel steadier and more supported. My office is located in Pasadena, just about 15 minutes by car from Alhambra, making it convenient if you live nearby. I also provide virtual sessions for those who prefer meeting online or can’t always commute.

Hi! I’m Cristina Lugo, LCSW Therapist for Teens and Adults near Alhambra

I work with clients from Alhambra and surrounding areas including Pasadena and Northeast LA. Whether you’re a student facing school pressures, a young adult navigating identity, or a parent supporting your teen, therapy can give you tools to feel steadier and more supported. My office is located in Pasadena, just about 15 minutes by car from Alhambra, making it convenient if you live nearby. I also provide virtual sessions for those who prefer meeting online or can’t always commute.

FAQ about my services

  • What is the best type of therapy for young adults and teenagers?

    There is no single “best” therapy. The right approach depends on each person’s life stage, identity, and emotional needs. EMDR, mindfulness, ACT, and creative therapies are all effective when tailored to the individual.

  • Do you offer therapy in person? What about virtual? Which one is better?

    I prefer in-person sessions because the connection feels richer. My Pasadena office is only about 15 minutes from Alhambra, making it easy to come in. I also provide virtual therapy when it’s more convenient. Both can be effective, and sometimes we combine them depending on your needs.

  • Do you take insurance?

    I am considered an out-of-network provider. If you have PPO insurance, you can be reimbursed for part of your sessions. I can provide superbills each month to help you submit for reimbursement which can make therapy much more affordable to you.

  • What is your cancellation policy?

    I require at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel without charge. If we cannot reschedule in the same week, the full session fee applies.

  • Do you offer a sliding scale?

    Yes, I am pleased to offer a robust sliding scale to support the various needs of our community. Please let me know if you have been impacted by the Eaton Fire, ICE raids or other difficult circumstances and we can find a rate that allows you to access therapy. My clients who pay my full fee make it possible for me to offer this community service so please bear that in mind when inquiring.