Christina Zsigray-Rodriguez

Christian Counseling

I specialize in Christian counseling by integrating faith into evidence-based therapeutic approaches. My experience includes using tools like spiritual genograms and assessments to explore a client’s faith history and how it impacts their strengths and coping strategies. I also incorporate Christ-centered mindfulness techniques, such as scripture-based meditation and prayerful breathing, to help clients regulate emotions and find peace. In therapy, I often help clients align their actions with faith-informed values like forgiveness, love, and hope. I also blend spiritual coping strategies with psychoeducation and behavioral interventions, encouraging clients to draw from their faith and, if they choose, to engage with supportive faith communities. I always work collaboratively with clients to tailor the use of Christian counseling to their goals and comfort level. Whether it's exploring scripture, prayer, or simply recognizing faith as a source of resilience, I ensure that the spiritual elements of therapy are client-led and integrated in a meaningful, respectful way. My goal is to help clients grow both emotionally and spiritually as they navigate life’s challenges.

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence-based approach that helps clients identify and change negative thought patterns that influence emotions and behaviors. In my practice, I guide clients through the process of recognizing unhelpful thoughts, challenging their accuracy, and replacing them with healthier, more constructive perspectives. CBT is highly collaborative, and I work closely with clients to set specific, measurable goals. Together, we break down overwhelming problems into manageable parts and develop practical strategies to address them. I often use tools like thought records, behavior activation plans, and exposure exercises to help clients build skills for managing anxiety, depression, and other challenges. I also emphasize the importance of homework and practice outside of sessions, as these are essential for reinforcing the skills learned in therapy. Whether it’s practicing mindfulness, reframing thoughts, or tracking progress, I ensure that clients leave each session with actionable steps to help them achieve their goals. My focus is on empowering clients to take control of their thoughts and behaviors, creating lasting change that promotes emotional well-being and resilience.

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a highly effective approach for helping clients manage intense emotions, build healthier relationships, and develop practical coping skills. In my practice, I focus on the four core areas of DBT: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. I work collaboratively with clients to teach skills that help them stay present in the moment, handle crises without making the situation worse, and regulate emotions more effectively. For example, I often introduce techniques like grounding exercises, self-soothing strategies, and emotion tracking to help clients build emotional resilience. Interpersonal effectiveness is another key focus of DBT, and I guide clients in learning how to communicate their needs clearly, set boundaries, and maintain positive relationships. I also incorporate dialectical thinking, which encourages clients to hold two seemingly opposite truths at the same time—for example, accepting themselves while working toward meaningful change. DBT is an interactive, skills-based approach, and I ensure clients leave each session with tools they can apply in their daily lives. My goal is to help clients create balance, build confidence, and lead a life aligned with their values.

Grief Therapy

I specialize in grief therapy, providing a compassionate and supportive space for clients navigating the loss of a loved one or a significant life change. My approach is tailored to each individual's unique experience of grief, recognizing that everyone processes loss differently. In my work, I help clients understand the natural stages of grief while emphasizing that there is no "right" way or timeline to grieve. Together, we explore the emotions that arise—such as sadness, anger, guilt, or even relief—without judgment. I guide clients in finding ways to honor their loss, maintain a connection to what they’ve lost, and rebuild a sense of purpose. I often incorporate evidence-based techniques, such as mindfulness for managing overwhelming emotions, journaling to process thoughts and memories, and cognitive strategies to address feelings of guilt or self-blame. For those experiencing complicated or prolonged grief, I provide tools to help integrate the loss into their lives while fostering resilience and hope. Grief therapy is about creating a safe, empathetic space where clients can share their story, find meaning in their loss, and take steps toward healing. My goal is to help clients move forward, not by "getting over" their grief but by learning to live with it in a way that allows for growth, joy, and peace.

EMDR

I am trained in EMDR and working towards my certification in EMDR, which is a structured, evidence-based therapy designed to help clients process traumatic or distressing experiences. My approach begins with establishing safety and stability, ensuring each client feels grounded before reprocessing begins. During sessions, I guide clients through bilateral stimulation — such as eye movements, tapping, or tones — while they recall key aspects of a painful memory. This process helps the brain reprocess the memory so it can be stored in a more adaptive way, reducing its emotional intensity and impact. Over time, clients often report feeling more at peace, more self-aware, and less triggered by past experiences.