Cristina M. Smugala, LPC, SEP

Counseling is a courageous decision that you have made to tap back into your inner self and invest in your wellbeing. It is a commitment to embarking on a journey of long-lasting change and true healing. Furthermore, it is proof that you are ready to thrive, that you are done running on autopilot and tired of struggling with the impact of trauma day in and day out. I specialize in trauma treatment, and my promise to you is to guide and support you in facing your fears, to offer a non-judgmental space for you to tell your story start to finish and to support the complete transformation of traumatic experience. Through my own personal journey into self-acceptance and healing, I understand the value of having a therapist that you can trust wholeheartedly, one that is attuned to your every need and emotion and truly invested in igniting the healing forces within you. I have 100% confidence in your ability to grow and change, and from the moment you enter into this trusting relationship with me, you have my word that I will encourage empowerment to heal the wounds of trauma. I specifically use EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, and IFS in my work as a trauma specialist as a means to restore a sense of calm and centered connection within the brain and body. You already have a wellspring of healing capacity within you; collaboratively we will work together to empower it. Trauma has buried it deep, and you have buried it even deeper because that is what you needed to do to survive and appear okay on the surface. Through guided exercises, skill teaching, and lots of practice, we can learn to let go of judgments and instead experience these emotions free of shame. Whatever your unique story, I possess the advanced knowledge and clinical skills necessary to reach your goals. I am passionate and motivated to help you unlock your full potential, and I offer a sacred space for you to move past your shame and rebuild trust. My primary focus is to help you believe in yourself once again, and I am committed to making that happen. I am honored to guide you on your recovery journey, and I look forward to guiding you to tap into your core, authentic self.