Crystal Urena
MSW Intern | Individual Clinician | Adults & Teens
Specialties:
Depression
Anxiety
Trauma
LGBTQ+
ADHD
Sexual Health
IFS
EMDR
DBT
Hey there, I am Crystal. I’m currently pursuing my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at George Mason University.
strongly believe in the importance of mental health advocacy. It’s about normalizing conversations around mental wellness, encouraging self-compassion, and connecting clients with resources that support their well-being outside of sessions. My goal is to help clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to advocate for themselves both in their personal lives and within their communities.
People often tell me that I’m approachable and genuine, which helps in building trust. I make a conscious effort to show up authentically and listen deeply. I believe trust takes time, and I prioritize creating a space where clients feel comfortable sharing at their own pace.
My ideal client is someone who’s ready to explore change, even if they’re unsure where to start. I really enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are dealing with issues like self-esteem, major life transitions, stress, relationships, or substance use. I aim to help clients explore their thoughts and emotions, develop practical coping skills, and discover healthier ways to navigate challenges. When clients finish working with me, I hope they walk away feeling more confident, with tools they can continue using, and with a better understanding of their own strengths and goals.
So far, my experience includes working in a Medication-Assisted Treatment clinic and in a private practice setting, where I’ve conducted intakes, assessments, and therapy sessions with a diverse range of clients. These experiences have allowed me to see firsthand how therapy can help people navigate life’s challenges and find their strength.
I’ve learned and practiced approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care. I’m also bilingual in English and Spanish, which helps me support clients in the language they feel most comfortable speaking. I believe that language is a vital part of building trust and understanding, and I love being able to offer my services in both languages.
What I bring to my work is a blend of practical experience and clinical training. Working in emergency assistance and housing services has given me insight into some of the systemic barriers facing many clients—things like housing instability and limited access to resources. At the same time, my therapy training helps me focus on resilience, coping strategies, and growth. I approach every session with curiosity, empathy, and humility, creating a space where clients feel safe, understood, and empowered to explore their experiences and goals.
My therapy style is warm, collaborative, and adaptable. I believe that therapy works best when it feels like a partnership—when clients feel supported and involved in their own process. I often incorporate CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-sensitive practices, using straightforward techniques like helping clients recognize and reframe unhelpful thoughts, supporting small behavioral changes, and providing a safe space to process difficult feelings.
On a personal note…
On a personal note, I enjoy spending time at the beach—that helps me relax and reconnect. I also love cooking and experimenting with new recipes. A fun fact about me: I often pretend I’m a travel agent when I plan trips, spending hours researching destinations and creating detailed itineraries just for fun.
One quote that inspires me is, “You are bigger than what makes you anxious.” It reminds me that even when anxiety feels overwhelming, it does not define who we are. We all have more strength and resilience than we sometimes realize.
When I need to take a break, I like to step away from social media and screens, which helps me reset mentally and come back feeling more present. A quirky fact about me: I have a pretty strong fear of rats, and I sleep with the lights on because I don’t like waking up in total darkness.
Ultimately, I believe that success in therapy starts with honesty, openness, and a willingness to explore oneself. I love seeing clients discover their own strength, overcome hurdles, and start building a life that feels meaningful to them. And I feel grateful to be part of that process.
Need more info?
Take your time to find the right fit. We’re not going anywhere.