About Therapy
It’s about exploration and growth.
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, especially if you’re not quite sure what to expect. Whether you’re here because something isn’t working, you’re feeling overwhelmed, or you know it’s time for a change, you’re in the right place.
Therapy is a space to slow down, reflect, and explore what’s happening beneath the surface. Together, we’ll look at the patterns, beliefs, and experiences that may keep you stuck or disconnected from yourself, others, or the life you want to live.
This work isn’t about fixing you because you’re not broken. It’s about reconnecting with your inner strength, understanding your story, and learning new ways to move through the world more clearly and confidently.
You drive the process.
In our work together, there will be room for laughter, because healing doesn’t always have to feel heavy. We’ll face the challenging moments with honesty, compassion, and care and always move at a pace that feels right for you.
I take a collaborative, down-to-earth approach to therapy. You will feel my warmth and authenticity and probably notice immediately that I’m tuned in. I listen closely to the details because your story deserves that kind of care.
I aim for you to look forward to our sessions, an hour that’s completely, unapologetically yours: no distractions, no judgment, just a space to be fully you.
Here’s how I can help.
Talking about your experiences is just one component of therapy. You’ll need fundamental tools and strategies to make real, long-lasting change.
I’ll teach you to notice your negative thoughts and how they influence your feelings and behaviors. As you become more aware of those influences, you will recognize your triggers and learn to regulate your emotions more effectively.
I will use EMDR to help you reprocess painful or distressing memories so they lose their emotional intensity. Many clients will often say their emotional reactivity softens, and with it, they sleep better, focus more easily, and feel steadier in their daily life. Many find it transformative, not just symptom relief, but lasting shifts toward healing and empowerment.
About Christine Bairstow, LMFT
Helping others heal is my passion.
My journey to becoming a therapist started as a teenager after I took my first psychology class. I’ve always been passionate about psychology, understanding human behavior, and serving others and my community.
It’s a privilege to witness someone share their inner struggles and to be a catalyst for their transformation. Helping others heal isn’t just work; it’s deeply fulfilling and gives me a profound sense of purpose and meaning in what I do.
Here’s a little about my professional training.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I’ve worked in various therapy settings, including community mental health, non-profit organizations, and private practice.
My training focused primarily on providing trauma-informed care to people of different ages and backgrounds.
In my free time…
My favorite pastimes include watching the sunset, hiking, and any activity that involves being outdoors. The best way to recharge is to watch my guilty pleasure reality TV shows and order takeout.
We all deserve a little R&R from time to time!