Xhris Castillejo (they/them/theirs/elle)

Hiya! My name is Xhris and I am a trans/non-binary and neurodiverse MEd School Counseling intern whose experiences have been shaped by my gender identity development, mixed culture, and other multiple layers of intersectionality. Originally from Chicago, I’ve spent most of my life in Phoenix, with a brief stint in San Francisco after graduating from Arizona State University. Some of my loves include coffee, cats, self-help books, Halloween, Pokémon, salt and vinegar chips, horror films, cooking and baking, learning languages, community service, drag artistry and performances, and learning about my Purépecha indigenous ancestry.

I believe everyone can cultivate self-awareness and personal growth, and that often we need support to accept, strengthen, and empower ourselves for meaningful change. My theoretical approach is integrative with an emphasis on the modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I support a diverse group of youth and adults who are ready to explore their thoughts, feelings, and beliefs to navigate stress, life changes, depression, anxiety, grief, and bereavement. I have a strong interest and passion for grief and loss counseling, with nearly five years of experience leading bereavement groups for young adults following the early loss of my own mother.

I am in my final year of Northern Arizona University’s Masters of Education in School Counseling, set to graduate in May, 2025 with a School Counselor certificate and an Associate Counselor Licensure (LAC). I aim to work with neurodiverse and LGBTQIA2S+ populations in a school or clinical setting after graduation.

If I sound like a good fit for you and your needs, I would be honored to work with you!