Hanai Center for Counseling & Wellness
949-529-1399
When we are no longer able to change the situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.
-Victor Frankl
About Therapy
"We are all capable of change and healing. We are not sick, broken, or damaged as many might believe. We are but a product of the world in which we are raised. As a healer in the mental health field, it is my job to find ways to aid my patients in finding a path to healing through education, caring, and coping skills. We learn in EMDR that many issues such as depression, anxiety, and trauma are a direct result of adverse life events. Healing is possible through understanding the impact of those events and taking steps to achieve a sense of well being.”
- Kristen Garubba EdD, LMFT
My Theoretical Orientation
Each client is an individual and therefore approaches are unique to those needs. Through collaboration and supportive discussion, therapist and client together choose the best method for them. While some issues are specific such as Trauma using EMDR, other additional interventions can be added in as needed to get the best possible outcomes.
Individual Therapy
When we feel as though we are stuck or left behind in life it can be a lonely place where we feel lost or stuck. Through empathy, understanding, and non-judgment, I can help you identify a path to healing and moving forward.
Teens/Adolescents
This period of life can be confusing and stressful at best. With this stage comes multiple changes that never seem to stop and can cause anxiety, fear, sadness, upset, and a sense of wondering when it will make sense. During this time there can also be conflict but internally and with family and friends. I provide a safe and supportive environment that encourages free speech without fear of being shut down or unheard. When needed, I will also include the family to support the development of healthy communication and understanding of the unique challenges of adolescence.
LGBTQ
I am LGBTQ affirming therapist supporting those who are attempting to navigate what can be a very difficult time. Our offices are a safe space to speak without judgment, worry, or disregard for feelings and values. Individuals are encouraged to open up about topics they may have once felt were taboo or unacceptable. Sometimes, we need a sounding board to explore our thoughts which we may have been unsure of in the past.
Survivors of Trauma
When we experience trauma, our sense of security, wellness, and ability to feel safe is disrupted. This makes life difficult to navigate as we respond to our feelings about the trauma in the here and now. Traumas do not have to be large, they can be built up over a lifetime but they all have an impact on how we see ourselves and how we interact with the world. I treat this population through the use of EMDR therapy to reprocess these traumas and improve the way we see ourselves and how we interact with the world.
Reproductive Issues
When we make the decision to add to our family there are unforeseen challenges which can have a negative impact on not only the process, but on the individual and couple as well. Kristen has experience working with individuals and couples going through this process has allowed me to gain an understanding of the difficulties this process can bring. Kristen offers support, guidance, and resources to individuals and couples as they work through this often times confusing and potentially painful time in their lives.