Therapy for Teens and Adults near Alhambra | Counselor Cristina Lugo

Looking for therapy near Alhambra can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I provide trauma-informed, creative, and culturally responsive care for teens and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and identity challenges. With over 14 years of experience, I have created a safe, inclusive space where real healing and growth can happen.

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

I use a mix of approaches, blending EMDR, mindfulness, and somatic practices with creative methods like art and reflection. This combination gives you practical tools for anxiety, depression, or trauma, while also helping you connect with your inner strengths and creativity.

Explore my therapy services and specializations

  • Individual Therapy for Teens and Adults

    A private, supportive space to explore what’s been weighing you down whether it’s stress, self-doubt, anxiety, or past experiences that still linger. In our sessions, we’ll work together to understand your emotional patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and reconnect you with your most grounded and authentic self. This is your time to slow down, speak freely, and begin healing at your own pace.

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  • Group Therapy for Teens

    Adolescence can feel overwhelming and often lonely. Group therapy offers a safe, welcoming environment where teens can connect with others facing similar struggles. Whether your teen is dealing with social anxiety, family changes, or emotional ups and downs, this space fosters empathy, belonging, and new tools for self-expression. We incorporate mindfulness, creative exercises, and peer support to help them feel less alone and more empowered.

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  • EMDR Therapist

    Sometimes talk therapy alone isn’t enough to heal deep emotional wounds. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful, evidence-based therapy that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they no longer control your present. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, anxiety, or lingering emotional pain, EMDR can create space for clarity, inner peace, and emotional resilience.

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  • Anxiety Therapy

    Anxiety can show up in many ways: constant worry, restlessness, racing thoughts, or even physical symptoms like tension and fatigue. Therapy can help you understand the roots of your anxiety, recognize your triggers, and practice evidence-based techniques like mindfulness, breathwork, and cognitive reframing. Together, we’ll create a toolbox of calming practices so you can navigate life with more ease and confidence.

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  • Therapy for Teenage Depression

    Teen depression is more than just feeling sad it can affect energy, motivation, relationships, and even self-worth. In therapy, teens find a compassionate space to be heard without judgment. We’ll explore what’s behind their emotions, offer tools for emotional regulation, and support them in rediscovering connection, purpose, and hope for the future.

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  • Academic Burnout

    School demands can feel relentless, especially for high-achieving students or those juggling multiple responsibilities. If you or your teen feels exhausted, unmotivated, or disconnected from learning, therapy can help. We’ll explore the roots of burnout, set healthier boundaries, and create strategies for balance so academic success doesn’t come at the cost of emotional well-being.Teen depression is more than just feeling sad it can affect energy, motivation, relationships, and even self-worth. In therapy, teens find a compassionate space to be heard without judgment. We’ll explore what’s behind their emotions, offer tools for emotional regulation, and support them in rediscovering connection, purpose, and hope for the future.

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  • Post-Grad Depression

    Graduation is supposed to be a celebration but for many, it brings a wave of uncertainty, disconnection, or self-doubt. Therapy offers support through this life transition, helping you process the changes, clarify your goals, and reimagine your future. You don’t have to figure it all out alone we’ll navigate the “what now?” together.

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  • Teenage Trauma

    Unresolved trauma can shape how teens see themselves, trust others, and move through the world. Whether the trauma was recent or occurred earlier in life, therapy provides a safe, structured space to begin the healing process. We use trauma-informed approaches to help reduce emotional reactivity, develop grounding techniques, and rebuild a sense of safety both within and around them.

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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.

Hello, I am Cristina Lugo | 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 counseling 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 out-of-network. If you have PPO coverage, you may be reimbursed for part of your fee. I provide superbills each month so you can submit for reimbursement.

  • 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 offer a generous sliding scale to ensure therapy is financially accessible to those navigating difficult circumstances. If you've been affected by events like the Eaton Fire, ICE raids, or other life disruptions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m committed to working with you to find a fee that makes support possible. This offering is made possible thanks to clients who pay the full rate your transparency and honesty are deeply appreciated.