Christina Yother-Williams, LAPC, CRC

Hi, I’m Christina, a licensed associate professional counselor, and certified rehabilitation counselor.

Many of our life experiences, especially those involving our mental health, take us places we don’t anticipate. At least that is my story. After years of feeling discouraged and helpless when trying to support myself and my family, I told my story to someone I could trust. They offered a nonjudgmental and safe space that I didn’t expect, and my journey with therapy began. Using the insight I gained from being vulnerable and trusting the process changed everything — not only how I felt, but what my purpose is.

Mental health concerns like depression, chronic or acute stress, anxiety, post-traumatic responses, substance misuse, and challenging life transitions impact all of us in personal and individualized ways, whether we talk about it or not. The good news is we have some say in how much. I know too well that leaving things unsaid can cause feelings of isolation and invisibility (and NOT in the superhero kind of way!).

Also born from my own life is a connection I feel with caregivers and loved ones of individuals with psychotic disorders; and those who are living with a severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI) such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder themselves. These individuals inspire me, as do those who are experiencing depression, trauma, interpersonal/familial conflicts, passive suicidal thoughts, substance use issues, and co-occurring disorders. It may be hard work at times, but I believe together, we can improve functioning, and quality of life, and find hope.