Therapy for Teens and Adults near San Gabriel Valley | Counselor Cristina Lugo
Finding the right therapist near San Gabriel Valley can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. I provide trauma-informed, creative, and culturally responsive care for teens and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and identity challenges. With more than 14 years of experience, I have built a safe, inclusive space where you can begin to heal and grow.
How it works
Book an intro call
Our first meeting is simply a chance to connect. You’ll have space to share what feels important while I listen and ask thoughtful questions. There’s no rush to share everything at once; the focus is on creating a foundation of safety and comfort.
Personalized, one-on-one sessions
Therapy should fit your life, not the other way around. Each person brings unique needs and goals, so we’ll create a plan that adapts as your circumstances shift. My role is to keep our work aligned with what matters most to you.
Evidence-based therapeutic techniques
I use a blend of approaches EMDR, mindfulness, and somatic awareness paired with creative tools like art and journaling. This balance helps you manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma while also reconnecting with your strengths and inner resilience.
Explore my therapy services and specializations
Individual Therapy for Teens and Adults
LEARN MOREA private space where you can speak openly and find relief from stress, self-doubt, or painful experiences. Together, we’ll build strategies that help you feel more balanced and authentic in your everyday life.
Group Therapy for Teens
LEARN MOREA supportive environment where teens connect with others who understand what they’re going through. Group therapy reduces isolation, builds belonging, and introduces coping tools like mindfulness and creative expression.
EMDR Therapist
LEARN MOREUnresolved memories can weigh you down. EMDR helps the brain reprocess those experiences so they no longer dominate your present, creating space for resilience, clarity, and emotional freedom.
Anxiety Therapy
LEARN MOREWhen worry feels constant and overwhelming, therapy helps calm the mind and body. We’ll identify triggers, practice relaxation techniques, and develop healthier ways to manage anxiety so you can breathe easier.
Therapy for Teenage Depression
LEARN MOREDepression can feel heavy and isolating, even when surrounded by others. In therapy, teens gain a safe space to share openly, learn coping strategies, and slowly reconnect with motivation and hope.
Academic Burnout
LEARN MORESchool pressure can leave students exhausted and unmotivated. Therapy provides tools to restore balance, rebuild energy, and create healthier expectations that make success more sustainable.Depression can feel heavy and isolating, even when surrounded by others. In therapy, teens gain a safe space to share openly, learn coping strategies, and slowly reconnect with motivation and hope.
Post-Grad Depression
LEARN MOREGraduation is a big milestone, but it can also bring confusion and doubt. Therapy offers guidance through this transition, helping you clarify your goals and build confidence for the future ahead.
Teenage Trauma
LEARN MORECarrying trauma can feel like dragging an invisible weight everywhere you go. Therapy provides safe, structured support to process painful experiences, reduce triggers, and restore trust in yourself and others.
I serve teens and adults near San Gabriel Valley
I work with clients from the San Gabriel Valley and surrounding areas including Pasadena and Northeast LA. Whether you’re a student facing academic stress, a young adult navigating identity, or a parent supporting your teen, therapy can help you feel more grounded and supported. My Pasadena office is about 32 minutes away by car, and I also provide virtual sessions if commuting isn’t possible.
Hello, I am Cristina Lugo | Therapist for Teens and Adults near San Gabriel Valley
I work with clients from the San Gabriel Valley and surrounding areas including Pasadena and Northeast LA. Whether you’re a student facing academic stress, a young adult navigating identity, or a parent supporting your teen, therapy can help you feel more grounded and supported. My Pasadena office is about 32 minutes away by car, and I also provide virtual sessions if commuting isn’t possible.
FAQ about my counseling services
What is the best type of therapy for young adults and teenagers?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The most effective therapy depends on your stage of life, identity, and needs. EMDR, mindfulness, ACT, and creative approaches can all be helpful when tailored to you.
Do you offer therapy in person? What about virtual? Which one is better?
I prefer in-person therapy because it creates a stronger sense of connection. My Pasadena office is about 32 minutes from San Gabriel Valley, making it accessible if you want to come in. Virtual sessions are also available for convenience, and some clients even choose a mix of both.
Do you take insurance?
I am considered out-of-network. Many PPO plans reimburse part of the cost, and I provide monthly superbills so you can request reimbursement directly from your insurance company.
What is your cancellation policy?
I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel. If we can’t reschedule in the same week, the full session fee will apply.
Can we start out therapy every-other-week?
Weekly sessions at the beginning help build trust and create momentum. Once you feel more steady and see progress, we can transition to biweekly sessions as maintenance.