Hi, I’m Christina King.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Manhattan Beach, offering virtual therapy services throughout California. From a young age, I knew I wanted to become a therapist.
My passion for psychology, along with a family connection to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), led me to the corn fields in the Midwest. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology, with a focus on Clinical and Community Psychology, in 2017.
As a true Californian, I swapped my winter coat for some sunshine and attended the University of Southern California (USC), where I completed my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2021.
Qualifications
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2017: University of Illinois Urbana Champaign
Bachelors of Science in Psychology, with a concentration in Clinical/Community Psychology
2021: University of Southern California
Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)
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Manhattan Beach Unified School District - School Counselor
Chicago Public Schools - AmeriCorps Member, Social Emotional Learning Coordinator
My approach
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
The interaction of our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors create our experience. Here we use evidence-based practices to challenge our way of thinking, act in alignment, and feel our best.
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Brain and Body
I am obsessed with understanding the neuroscience of our brain and body. Here we will build our awareness and understanding of our nervous system and implement practical skills to regulate our mind and body.
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Family Systems
As much as we might hope, we do not exist in a vacuum. We are constantly influenced by our family of origin, community, and culture. Here we will take a curious exploration through these elements and find opportunities to enhance authenticity.
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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Sometimes, talk therapy isn’t quite getting us the results we want. Here we use bilateral stimulation to build coping skills, reduce the impact of traumatic events, and get unstuck.
outside the Therapy Room
Therapy is often one of the most intimate relationships we experience—an open, non-judgmental space for self-exploration. Because of the unique dynamic, it can sometimes feel one-sided. My approach is from a humanistic perspective, valuing authenticity and believing in bringing my true self into the room. So, here's a bit about me:
I was born and raised in Southern California, and as a kid, I was full of energy and never seemed to sit still. Sports quickly became a central part of my life. Despite my size, I was a competitive basketball player, earning a CIF championship and finishing second in the state during high school.
With my Jordan’s on the shelf, I can often be found soaking up the surf, escaping to the mountains, or enjoying a hot yoga class. I cherish slow mornings spent sipping coffee, diving into a good book, and practicing meditation.
Velvet Monkey
Velvet Monkey is training to be a therapy dog. She is currently working on learning basic commands, playing fetch, and getting lots of treats.
Velvet’s Story:
As a puppy, she was dumped on the side of the road after not being bought a trade show. Thankfully, she was rescued and brought to a shelter in Studio City, California.
Following the shelter on instagram, Christina was taken by this charming girl. Velvet has quickly adjusted to life in the South Bay - taking the house and neighborhood by storm. She makes friends everywhere she goes and with anyone who will give her belly rubs.
Velvet Monkey is a Golden Retriever / Labrador Retriever mix (or so they say). Upon adoption, Christina knew she had to be therapy dog. Her docile temperament, love of people, and natural cuddling abilities makes her a natural.
Her favorite activities include: morning cuddles with mom and dad, belly rubs from the neighborhood kids, and sunset walks on the beach.