Celeste Cruz
AMFT #127493 - Associate Director + Psychotherapist
About Celeste
My passions come alive when I am moving and in service to another's transformation. I have been a practitioner and yoga instructor since 2006, dedicating my career to helping others find balance and healing. In 2012, I took a significant step by opening my own yoga studio, which has become a sanctuary for many seeking physical and emotional wellness. Leading yoga retreats has further enriched my experience, allowing me to connect deeply with participants in diverse settings and contexts. My journey in the wellness field began earlier, working in luxury spas and as a massage therapist and esthetician, where I honed my skills in providing personalized care.
My Background
In 2018, I began studying as a somatic psychotherapist at the California Institute of Integral Studies. This program was a pivotal moment in my career, enabling me to integrate my background in bodywork and yoga with advanced therapeutic techniques. This education has deepened my capacity to facilitate healing and awareness in others. My commitment to expanding my therapeutic toolkit continued as I learned to facilitate EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) in 2020, a technique that has proven invaluable in helping clients process trauma. The following year, I further broadened my expertise by participating in Journey Clinical’s ketamine-assisted therapy training, adding another layer to my approach in supporting clients through complex emotional and psychological challenges. Most recently, I completed training in Reiki 1 and 2, an energy healing practice that complements my other therapeutic modalities.
My Approach
My therapeutic focus has largely been on individuals and couples dealing with codependency and healing from relationships marked by narcissism or addiction. This work often involves addressing grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I consider it a profound privilege to serve as a grounded and compassionate witness to my clients' journeys. I hold space for them as they navigate their inner landscapes, providing support while they learn, grow, shed old patterns, and step into more fulfilling and meaningful aspects of their lives.
The poet Kahlil Gibran, in "The Prophet," writes, “The deeper your sorrow carves into your being, the more joy you can contain.” This sentiment resonates deeply with my practice. I live for those breakthrough moments when clients move through pain and confusion to experience the relief and joy on the other side. Witnessing these transformations, as clients courageously confront their struggles, is profoundly rewarding. It is in these moments of vulnerability and discovery that the true potential for healing and growth unfolds.
In addition to my therapeutic work, I have recently authored a book titled "Mining Your Self-Worth: A Guide for Self-Discovery." This book reflects my journey and insights into building self-worth, offering readers tools and perspectives to explore their own self-discovery processes. The writing and publication of this book represent an extension of my commitment to supporting personal growth and empowerment.
My Intention
Looking ahead, my intention is to continue deepening my own process of self-reflection and growth, both personally and professionally. By enhancing my skills and expanding my knowledge, I aim to remain a steadfast and effective guide for those seeking transformation. My goal is to continually evolve in my ability to serve others, ensuring that I provide the most meaningful and impactful support possible.