Grief counselors and therapists in Vista, CA

Hello! I'm Kris and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California and the founder of Village Wellness Center, a thriving group psychotherapy practice based in San Juan Capistrano. I have over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, and I specialize in maternal mental health, depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, and the unique needs of women and mothers.

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Sacramento State University and returned to school 15 years later to earn my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology.

The beginning of my career in mental health started in residential care helping at-risk youth, and over the course of 20 years, my work and experience evolved into leading and developing clinical programs for outpatient and court-mandated facilities while also building my specialty in perinatal mood disorders and maternal mental health in my private practice. Additionally over the past two decades, I was raising my family and actively contributing to the Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano communities.

Through my own struggles with postpartum depression and anxiety, I became a passionate advocate for maternal wellness and thriving families. This became the catalyst to opening Village Wellness Center, where the ability to serve entire families and promote holistic mental wellness with a team of therapists can be achieved.

I’m a licensed therapist with a Master’s in Counseling with an emphasis in Child and Family Therapy, and I’m certified in Perinatal Mental Health. I work with children, adolescents, and families, and I also support moms navigating pregnancy, postpartum, and the emotional challenges of early parenthood. I have experience helping with anxiety, emotional regulation, behavioral challenges, and school-related concerns, and I especially enjoy working with children and pre-teens using play and creative approaches.

(Hablo Español) I'm a warm, welcoming person who enjoys making others feel comfortable and heard. I approach conversations with an open mind, staying nonjudgmental and genuinely curious about different perspectives. I value kindness, honesty, and creating a space where people can be themselves. Whether we're solving a problem or just chatting, I aim to keep things approachable, positive, and easy to understand.

I'm a therapist based in the Coachella Valley with a broad scope. I work with individuals, couples, families, and children navigating some of life's most difficult terrain: trauma and PTSD, anxiety and depression, substance use and addiction, family conflict, grief, anger, and the particular pressures that come with being a man in a culture that rarely teaches men how to ask for help.

I offer both in-person sessions in the valley and telehealth appointments throughout California. My approach is direct but never harsh, structured but never rigid. I don't believe in one-size-fits-all therapy, I meet you where you actually are.

I am a Latinx therapist who specializes in trauma and the healing journey that follows. My approach is grounded in both professionalism and personal experience. Having done my own therapy work, I understand the courage it takes to face painful experiences, navigate life's challenges, and commit to personal growth.

I recognize that healing is not always a linear process. Growth often involves discomfort, vulnerability, and persistence. Because of this, I strive to create a compassionate, culturally responsive space where clients feel seen, understood, and supported as they work toward meaningful change.

Whether you are processing trauma, navigating life transitions, or seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I am committed to walking alongside you with empathy, authenticity, and respect for your unique experiences.

As a therapist my goal is to break the stigma that comes with therapy. I strive to create a collaborative, nurturing therapeutic relationship that can help transform one's pain or uncertainties into one of healing. Life can be difficult and sometimes confusing therefore I want to create a corner where one can feel safe, understood, and free of judgement.

I believe the best work happens when you feel comfortable, understood, and supported. My goal is to create a space where you can be yourself—no pressure, no judgment, and no need to have everything figured out before you start. We’ll work together to explore what’s bringing you in, what matters most to you, and what you’d like to change or better understand.

I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all approaches. Each person is different, so our work will be tailored to your needs, your goals, and your pace. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, going through a transition, or simply wanting to better understand yourself, I’m here to help you move forward in a way that feels manageable and authentic.

What I Bring to Our Work

• A welcoming, nonjudgmental space
• Thoughtful listening and honest, compassionate feedback
• A balance of insight and practical tools you can use outside of sessions
• Support that’s personalized to you, not a preset formula

If you’re looking for someone who is easy to talk to, genuinely supportive, and invested in your growth, I’d be glad to work with you and see if we’re a good fit.