Let me tell you a little bit about myself.
Hi there - welcome! I’m Christine. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and ADHD-CCSP (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - Certified Clinical Services Provider) licensed in California (#135281), dedicated to helping people hope, heal, and thrive in their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with adults with ADHD as well as adult children of immigrants, however I see clients with a wide range of concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, major life transitions, burnout, stress, grief, relationship challenges, concerns unique to the LGBTQIA community, and navigating a sense of identity throughout various life stages. My passion is supporting individuals in gaining self-awareness and insight into their challenges and developing practical strategies to thrive, whether in relationships, work, or personal growth.
I take an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). My style is warm, collaborative, and direct - I work alongside you to create meaningful change while offering a supportive space to explore challenges.
As a child of immigrants, I understand the complexities of identity, cultural expectations, and intergenerational dynamics. Both of my parents are Greek immigrants and I was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, surrounded by a robust Greek-American community. My lived experience has helped fuel the passion I have in specializing in working with adult children of immigrants, focusing on helping them balance cultural values while fostering personal authenticity and emotional well-being.
I was also diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, which has given me a deep, personal understanding of the challenges and strengths that come with neurodiversity. This lived experience allows me to bring both empathy and practical insight into my work with clients navigating ADHD, helping them develop strategies that truly fit their unique needs and lifestyles.
I know that seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, and my goal is to make the process as approachable and empowering as possible. Clients often describe me as compassionate, insightful, and solution-focused. My sessions are tailored to your unique needs, and I provide concrete tools to help you move forward with confidence.
If you're ready to take the next step toward clarity and balance, I'd love to connect. Feel free to reach out for a free consultation - I look forward to working with you!
With warmth & gratitude,
Christine
Christine Minakakis, MA, LMFT
Elpitha (Ελπίδα) means hope.
Elpitha (Elpida/Ελπίδα) is the personification and spirit of hope in Greek mythology, and it’s why I chose this name for my practice.
Hope is at the heart of therapy—it’s the belief that change is possible, that healing can happen, and that growth is within reach. I see hope not just as a feeling, but as a practice, something we cultivate through small steps, resilience, and self-compassion. My goal is to help clients foster that sense of hope in their own lives, empowering them to move forward with confidence and clarity.
