Dr. Christian Santana

LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST

I have been working with individuals, couples, and families since 2004. As part of my clinical training, I’ve had the opportunity to provide counseling services for non-profit and faith-based organizations, which has allowed me to gain vast experience treating populations from diverse cultural, ethnic, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

I was born in Ecuador and have lived in the U.S. for more than 20 years. As a Latino therapist, I am interested on issues regarding racial and ethnic identity, multiculturalism, and migration trauma. These are issues that have great impact on families and therefore on our society. In my role as a social justice advocate, my intention is to serve and empower families so that they can become resilient in the face of adversity.

I completed my doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Eastern University. One of the unique features of this program is the integration of spirituality and psychology, which is something that has expanded my clinical skills, and has allowed me to implement a holistic therapeutic approach.  I also hold a Master’s degree in Psychological Services and a Professional Diploma in Marriage and Family Therapy from Kean University.

My training in family systems theory has helped me develop a better understanding of people in the context of relationships and culture. In order to live fulfilling lives, we must be able to establish healthy relationships; we cannot survive in isolation. I have also been trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which is one of the most effective evidence-based models for treating couples in distress.

Finally, I am able to combine my passion for music and psychotherapy. As an experienced musician, I am able to integrate creative arts in treatment. Music has allowed my clients to find new forms of expression beyond traditional talk therapy.