Hi, I’m Cristina Silva.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona.

I received my education at Grand Canyon University. (Go Lopes!) I completed my Master of Science in Professional Counseling from GCU in 2018, and went on to complete specialty trainings in the areas of trauma and anxiety disorders. I do consider myself an eclectic therapist, basing my therapeutic approach on the needs of my clients. A few of my approaches include EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and more!

I was born and raised in Arizona. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, crocheting, being with my fur-babies, and connecting with my faith.

Do not hesitate to reach out to me if you would like any more information regarding myself or my practice.

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My Therapeutic Approaches & Specialities

The over-arching theme of all my modalities is a person-centered approach. I hold the belief that you have the capacity for self-healing and growth when provided a supportive, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment. I want you to know that your experiences, thoughts, and feelings are valid and important. In our sessions, I'll strive to understand your world from your perspective, without judgment or assumptions. You are the expert on your own life, and my role is to walk alongside you offering empathy, support, and guidance. I'm committed to creating a safe and trusting space where you can freely express yourself and discover your own path to healing and growth.

My training in trauma-informed therapy, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), means I have the expertise you need and deserve when it comes to healing past painful experiences. In addition to trauma, I also have advanced training to treating anxiety disorders, including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder using ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy). But at the end of the day, you want to know you’re working with someone who “gets” what it means to be an adult struggling with overwhelming emotions and lacks confidence in overcoming these challenges, right?

I get it because I have experienced past painful experiences that caused overwhelming emotions, anxiety, low self-esteem, and feelings of hopelessness.  I know that you feel so discouraged by the cards you have been dealt in life and feel like you will never overcome them. So, when we work together, you won’t just get a trained therapist. You’ll get someone who truly understands what you’re going through.

Here are some of the main approaches I use:

  • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is used to treat trauma and other distressing experiences. This is a structured therapeutic approach that helps the client process traumatic memories by focusing on specific aspects of the memory while using bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movements or taps. This process aims to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories, reduce their emotional impact, and alleviate symptoms of trauma-related disorders.

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used and effective treatment approach that focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By identifying and challenging negative or unhelpful thought patterns, CBT helps individuals develop more adaptive ways of thinking and coping with life's challenges.

    Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a specialized form of CBT designed to treat anxiety disorders, particularly Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). ERP involves gradually exposing individuals to feared situations or stimuli while preventing the usual compulsive responses. Through this process, individuals learn to tolerate anxiety without engaging in compulsive behaviors, leading to a reduction in anxiety over time. ERP is highly effective and can help individuals regain control over their lives.

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a mindfulness-based approach that encourages individuals to accept what is out of their personal control and commit to taking action that enriches their lives. ACT teaches psychological skills to help individuals live in the present moment, handle painful thoughts and feelings more effectively, and take steps towards creating a meaningful life. By practicing acceptance and mindfulness, individuals can develop greater psychological flexibility and resilience.

  • Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy is an innovative approach that views the mind as a complex system of interacting parts, each with its own unique qualities and characteristics. These parts often hold different beliefs, emotions, and memories, and may play various roles in our lives. IFS helps individuals explore and understand these parts, fostering harmony, balance, and healing within the internal system. By developing self-awareness and compassion for these parts, individuals can transform their relationship with themselves and others, leading to lasting change and growth.

-EMDR Trained 2021

-Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Training 2022

-Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy Training through the Cognitive Behavioral Institute 2023

-Tele-mental Health Certification 2020

My training