Hi! I’m Krista

As a second-generation, cisgender, heterosexual Filipina American woman, I navigate the complexities of identity through the lens of my bicultural background and personal experiences. My mother’s journey as an immigrant from the Philippines has profoundly shaped my understanding of perseverance, resilience, and the intersections of race, generational status, ethnicity, and socio-economic status. Growing up in a low middle-class household, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges of balancing cultural expectations with the pursuit of the American Dream.

As a first-generation doctoral candidate and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I recognize the significance of breaking barriers within my immigrant family, my community, and my culture. My journey as a scholar-practitioner has been deeply informed by my commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by diverse, marginalized, and underserved communities, particularly those within the Filipino American population.

This positionality allows me to approach my work with a nuanced understanding of the cultural, socio-economic, and gender-related factors that influence mental health. My commitment to equity, cultural responsiveness, and social justice is rooted in both my personal and professional experiences, driving my passion to fostering inclusive and culturally responsive practices in Couple and Family Therapy and other mental health fields. 

…..and this is my portfolio