ADHD & Neurodivergent Counseling in Austin, TX
FUN FACT:
I used to be a vet! In 1995, I earned my doctor of veterinary medicine in Italy. Later, I changed my focus from healing animals to helping humans. So, I returned to school and earned my masters degree at St. Edwards University.
About Me
Cristina Culiolo Leoni, M.A., LPC, LMFT
Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
EMDR Certified Practitioner
Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider
I’m Cristina, a licensed therapist in Austin, Texas. I work with adults and couples navigating ADHD, Autism, AuDHD, trauma, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, and relationship challenges.
Many of my clients are capable and accomplished but feel overwhelmed beneath the surface. They may place intense pressure on themselves, take care of everyone else, struggle to set boundaries, or feel that they are never doing enough.
My approach is active, collaborative, and compassionate. I will listen and help you understand your experiences, but I will also ask thoughtful questions, identify patterns, and offer practical tools you can use outside therapy.
My Approach to Therapy
Therapy is not about fixing who you are. It is about understanding yourself more fully and finding ways to move forward that work for your brain, your relationships, and your life.
Depending on your needs, I may integrate:
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Talk therapy
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EMDR
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Mindfulness
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IFS-informed parts work
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Schema therapy
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Somatic and nervous-system regulation
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Practical executive-functioning strategies
We may use one primary approach or combine several.
Therapy is personalized to your goals, preferences, and pace.
A Little About My Journey
Before becoming a therapist, I was a veterinarian in Italy. In 1995, I earned my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Later, I discovered that my deeper calling was helping people heal, grow, and understand themselves.
I returned to school and earned my master’s degree from St. Edward’s University. My background continues to influence how I work: I am curious, attentive, practical, and interested in the whole person—not simply a diagnosis or collection of symptoms.
I also serve on the board of directors of a newly forming schema therapy association serving the southern United States. This role reflects my commitment to continued professional development, collaboration, and the advancement of schema therapy in our region.
For more than eight years, I have been an active member of the same business accountability group, participating every week. This long-term commitment reflects how much I value consistency, personal growth, connection, and accountability—qualities I also bring to my work as a therapist.
Beyond the therapy room:
🐾
I was once a veterinarian, and my cats still expect unlimited complimentary consultations.
🧶
My latest ADHD hyperfocus is crocheting—and apparently, collecting yarn is a separate hobby.
🌱
I talk to my tomatoes, and going to the nursery for “just one plant” is never a realistic plan.
