Meet Christa
I am a passionate helping professional who has been serving children, youth, adults and families through community-based organizations, primarily focused on trauma survivors and vulnerable populations, for 15 years. I have extensive experience working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, so ensuring clients feel safe and in control is paramount. I have a collaborative, client-centered style. My practice has focused on addressing a variety of needs including trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodiversity, identity, parenting, relationships, behaviors, and substance use. I am also a Registered Yoga Teacher with training to incorporate yoga into mental health practice. At times I have had clients tell me that my “flower crown is showing.”
I prioritize continuing education to ensure that I am knowledgeable about best practices and that my clients receive the highest quality of care. I hold certificates for Training in Adoption Competency from the Center for Adoption Support and Education, Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) and ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) from Evergreen I have also completed Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR, ARC (Attachment Regulation and Competency) Trauma Treatment for Children and Adolescents and the Greenspan Floortime Approach designed for serving children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental challenges. I have background and training in a variety of other evidence-based practices including motivational interviewing, harm reduction, and cognitive behavioral therapeutic approaches. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C., as well as a Board-Certified Telehealth Professional.
I spent my formative years in Japan and identify as a Third-Culture Kid. I have also traveled extensively and enjoy working with diverse populations. I value the worth and dignity of all people and am committed to anti-racist work, supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and other forms of social justice advocacy. I individualize my work style to meet my clients’ unique needs but would consistently be described as non-judgmental and warm. I also have two feline assistants you may see during our sessions.
Christa earned her Bachelor of Arts degrees in Psychology and Criminology & Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland, College Park, with minors in Japanese and International Studies. She earned her Masters of Science degree in Social Work from Columbia University in the City of New York with specializations in International Social Welfare and Services to Immigrants and Refugees.
