I strive to hold a creative, affirming space to explore who you are and find your own path toward healing.
I believe therapy should be a space where you feel safe to show up as your authentic self, explore difficult emotions, and feel supported in navigating life’s challenges. My approach is rooted in curiosity, creativity, and compassion, with an understanding that healing is never one-size-fits- all. I use art therapy to offer creative ways to express emotions, process difficult experiences, and explore parts of self that can sometimes be hard to put into words. Through art making and trauma-informed care, I strive to create a space where self-expression, emotional regulation, and personal growth can unfold at your own pace.
I especially enjoy working with teens and young adults as they navigate identity, relationships, belonging, and the transition into adulthood. I support individuals experiencing anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and questions of identity and self-understanding, with a particular passion for working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, neurodivergent clients, and those from multicultural backgrounds.
I strive to create an affirming, culturally responsive space where each person’s unique experiences and needs are honored. I believe meaningful therapeutic work can make room for both the difficult moments and the moments of joy, creativity, and playfulness. Through art making, creative exploration, and collaboration, I hope to help clients better understand themselves, build on their strengths, and discover tools that feel authentic to who they are.
Pronouns: (she/they)
Hi, I’m Gariné!
My Approach
In sessions, balance between supporting clients with structure and following my clients lead. I bring a deeply collaborative approach to my work, trusting in my client as the expert and working together to build tools and supports. I am working towards my play therapy certification and bring play and curiosity into session. As a therapist, I view the client as the expert in their own life, and my role is to work alongside you and enhance your strengths. In the therapy space, I am a laid-back, warm, and flexible. I like sensory items so you may find me using a worry stone or pop it during session, but don’t worry my focus is on you!
My experience
I have five years experience working as a School Counselor for both elementary and middle school students with diverse backgrounds and needs. I have worked with individuals that have IEPS and 504 plans. I assisted in the creation and implementation of 504 plans. In addition to school settings, I have experience working as an Intensive In-Home Clinician and a Residential Counselor with adolescents and teens struggling with eating disorders, high-risk behaviors, and complex emotional and behavioral needs. As an Intensive In-Home Clinician, I worked closely with families to implement strategies to help children and families with behaviors concerns.
Licensure and Certifications
Resident in Counseling # 0704018664
ATR-P #25-385
Under supervision of Christina Hagemeier, LPC, ATR-BC
LPC#0701010990
Modalites
Play Therapy
Art Therapy
Sand Tray Therapy
Narrative Therapy
LGBQT+ affirming therapy
Trauma informed practices
Somatic work
Areas of Focus
Children who hold it together at school but melt down the moment they get home
Child and teens struggling with identity, school, or realtionships that may come out in anxiety or depression.
Children, teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma and struggle to understand their triggers and emotions
LGBTQ+ folks who are navigating identity, relationships, or transitions.
ADHD, Autism , depression, learning disabilities, and anxiety
Children with 504 and IEPs