Cristina Hernandez
Hello, my name is Maria "Cristina" Hernandez. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I’m truly glad you’re here today. As a psychotherapist, my main goal is to support individuals in navigating life’s challenges and helping them discover tools that empower them to reach their full potential. I find deep fulfillment in witnessing people make meaningful progress toward their personal goals. Therapy is just one part of who I am. I’m also a friend, partner, and stepparent—roles that shape my perspective and contribute to the person and therapist I am today. I would describe myself as warm, empathetic, and a good listener. These qualities allow me to create a safe and welcoming space for my clients, which is essential in building trust and connection.
As a psychotherapist, my main goal is to support individuals in navigating life’s challenges and helping them discover tools that empower them to reach their full potential.
I was raised in a Christian home, and the values instilled in me—such as humility, honesty, respect, and compassion—have strongly influenced both my personal life and professional approach. These principles continue to guide me in supporting others with integrity and care.
First session
One of the therapeutic approaches I often use and find highly effective is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT helps individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. With guidance from a therapist, clients learn to recognize cognitive distortions and replace them with more balanced, realistic thoughts—leading to improved mood and behavior over time. I also incorporate supportive therapy to create a compassionate, non-judgmental space that offers validation, encouragement, and normalization of experiences. Additionally, I enjoy using Family Systems Therapy when working with couples or families. This approach allows me to assess relationship dynamics, identify unhealthy patterns, and support the development of more positive and functional interactions among family members.
Strengths
A common theme I’ve observed in many of the individuals I work with is the absence of a strong support system, limited healthy coping skills, and a lack of a structured plan to address the challenges they face. Gaining a deep understanding of how mental health conditions uniquely present in each person allows me to tailor treatment plans that integrate both their individual personality and the specific symptoms that need attention. Psychotherapy offers a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals can receive support, understanding, and care. I recognize that seeking help is not always easy—it takes courage to admit when support is needed. However, taking that first step is a powerful move toward healing and meaningful, lasting change.
Ideal clients
My experience spans working with individuals affected by domestic violence, including survivors, children, other family members, and perpetrators. Through education and the use of effective therapeutic tools, I help clients process trauma, promote healing, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. I also have a passion for working with teenagers who may be struggling with communication, identity, and acceptance. While working with couples can present challenges, I find it deeply rewarding to help partners break negative cycles and build healthier communication patterns. In addition, I have experience treating a range of mental health diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more. My goal is always to provide support that is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have been practicing CBT for 12 years to help clients overcome intrusive thinking patterns affecting how they feel and behave.
EMDR
This is a newer approach I have been using in order to help clients overcome trauma.
Solution-Focused Brief Treatment
Current approach being practiced in short term treatment to provide support and goal orientation.
Location
Virtual sessions