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Meet Christina Gallardo, LMSW, CAADC

Virtual Therapy For LGBTQ+ Folks in Florida and Michigan

Begin Your Healing Journey

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Hi! I’m Christina (she/her)

A queer therapist, activist, a Virgo eldest daughter, a reality TV fan (all things Bravo).

I’m also someone who knows firsthand what it’s like to carry the weight of family patterns you’re determined to break and navigate anxiety. I grew up as the eldest daughter in a family of mixed Mexican and white heritage, learning early to care for others and strive for perfection. Perfectionism was my armor, and anxiety was my constant companion.

As a queer woman, I’ve experienced the layers of navigating identity, family, and the pressure to adapt in spaces that weren’t welcoming. Through therapy, I learned to quiet the anxiety and trust myself, and began to loosen perfectionism’s grip—embracing imperfection and self-compassion in ways that have transformed my daily life. I’ve learned to accept all parts of myself, including my queerness, and to honor the fullness of who I am. These are skills I now bring to my work with clients every day.

Therapy with me is steady, warm, and collaborative.

You won’t be analyzed or judged. I show up as a real person—sometimes with a book recommendation, sometimes with a gentle challenge, always with respect for your story. We’ll move at your pace, and you’ll leave each session with both insight and tools you can use in your daily life. My approach is affirming, trauma-informed and with deep respect for how identity and culture shape your experience.

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You don’t have to educate me about your identity or explain why the world feels unsafe right now. I get it.

My role is to support you in sorting out what’s yours to carry, what you can set down, and how you want to move forward—on your terms. Whether you’re seeking anxiety support, breaking intergenerational cycles, or navigating transition, you deserve a therapist who sees the whole you.

"There's magic in being seen by people who understand—it gives you permission to keep going."

— Alok Vaid-Menon

I hold a master’s degree from the University of Michigan and bring nearly two decades of experience in mental health and substance use settings, including therapy and leadership roles. My practice is shaped by my lived experience as a queer person with intersecting identities, and by my commitment to justice and advocacy. I show up every day because I believe in the power of being met with acceptance, and in the possibility of healing—even when the world feels unsafe or uncertain.

Schedule a free consult

How I Can Help you

My Specialties

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Anxiety & Overthinking in LGBTQ+ Adults

Cycle Breaking & Generational Trauma

Gender-Affirming Therapy & Transition Support

Surgical Readiness
Evaluations

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Education & Experience

My background, professional training, and lived experience deeply inform my approach to supporting clients with anxiety, breaking generational patterns, and providing gender-affirming therapy.

License and Credentials

Licensed Master Social Worker, State of Michigan #6801090810

Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC)

Michigan Certification Board for Addiction Professionals #C-04436

Florida TLHT Licensed Clinical Social Worker #TPSW3887

2008-2010 — Community Mental Health Case Manager
Training and Treatment Innovations, Oxford, MI

2010-2014 — CARE House (Child Abuse and Neglect Council of Oakland County)
Pontiac, MI

- Family Advocate 2010- 2012
- Clinical Director 2012- 2014

2015-2022 — Ascension Michigan Health System
Detroit, MI

- Telebehavioral Health Coordinator 2015-2018
- Telebehavioral Health Supervisor 2018-2019
- Telebehavioral Health Manager 2019-2022

2007 — Bachelor of Social Work
Madonna University, Livonia, MI

2008 — Master of Social Work
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI

2008-2010 — Private Practice Therapist
Clarkston, MI

2014-2015 — Runaway and Homeless Youth Program Manager
Common Ground, Royal Oak, MI

2022 - Present — Therapist in Private Practice
Serving Michigan & Florida

Core Values

My work is grounded in values that inform every aspect of therapy:

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Inclusivity

I provide culturally responsive mental health care where all identities are respected, affirmed, and understood.

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Authenticity and Safety

Healing happens when people feel safe to be their full selves without judgment or pressure to conform. I create an affirming space where clients can show up exactly as they are—respected, believed, and supported in building a deeper sense of safety both in our work together and within themselves.

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Community

Healing is rooted in connection and community, not isolation. My practice centers on helping clients find, build, and strengthen communities where they experience acceptance, mutual support and aid, and the freedom to be their whole selves.

Empowerment

Healing includes learning to trust yourself again. I support clients in strengthening self-trust, honoring their inner voice, and making choices that reflect their values, boundaries, and authentic identity.

If you’re curious about working together, I offer a free 15-minute consultation.

There’s no pressure—just a chance to see if we’re a good fit.