Upward Spiral Counseling
About Me
A Journey of Healing & Transformation
We’re all in different stages of remembering who we are and why we’re here. Speaking our thoughts out loud, especially the messy or uncertain ones, with someone we trust helps us make sense of things. That’s how clarity begins: through connection, reflection, and discovery.
Hi, I’m Christina!
My name is Christina Pongracic. A lot of people I work with are used to being the strong one. They take care of everyone else and push through, even when they’re hurting. Over time, that starts to take a toll. You might feel like you’ve lost yourself, or like nothing’s really working anymore, no matter how hard you try.
At Upward Spiral Counseling, I work with people who are ready for change, even if they’re scared or unsure about what that looks like. Whether you’re feeling stuck in anxiety or grief, or going through a major life shift like a breakup or your kids moving out, I’m here to help you find your way back to yourself.
I’ve been a licensed therapist for over four years, and I’ve also lived through a lot of the things my clients come in with. My approach is honest, supportive, and focused on helping you feel more grounded, more empowered, and more like you again.
A Personal Path to Helping You Heal
Where It Started
I grew up around therapy. My dad is a psychiatrist, so I always knew the power of deep listening and real connection. But my own path wasn’t smooth. I’ve faced some really difficult seasons, and I’ve done a lot of healing work myself.
How It Changed Me
What I learned is that healing doesn’t mean going back and reliving every painful memory. It means coming home to yourself. Getting to know who you are underneath all the layers. That’s how I show up in therapy now, gently guiding people back to their own strength and clarity.
Why I Believe in You
I’ve seen how strong people really are once they stop fighting themselves and start listening to their innate wisdom. Even if you’re doubting that right now, I see potential in every client I work with. And I believe you have what it takes to feel better.
Core Values
Trust & Confidentiality
Creating a safe, judgment-free space where clients can share openly, knowing they are heard with honesty, respect, and complete confidentiality.
Empowerment Through Choice
Clients are the agents of their own change. They already hold the answers, therapy is about uncovering them.
Holistic Well-Being
Mental health is deeply connected to physical well-being. Nutritional wellness and movement are essential tools in achieving mental clarity and emotional balance.
What I Believe
- You are your own best healer. My job is to help you uncover the answers already inside you.
- Your past does not define you. You get to choose who you become.
- Therapy should be a space where you feel safe, seen, and understood - never judged.
- Healing isn’t about perfection. It’s about coming home to yourself.
This Is for You If…
- You feel stuck in the same painful patterns but don’t know how to break free.
- You struggle with anxiety, overthinking, or feeling like you have to be “the strong one” all the time.
- You’re tired of people-pleasing and are ready to put yourself first, without guilt.
- You’re ready to heal, but you don’t want to spend years just talking about your pain. You want real change.
My Approach
A Unique Approach to Healing
Therapy here is not about endlessly revisiting past traumas. Instead, the focus is on:
Returning to Self
Reconnecting with one’s essence and true identity.
Living in the Present
Cultivating awareness of the mind-body connection.
Peeling Back the Layers
Uncovering personal wisdom and strength through self-exploration.
Clients are guided toward seeing themselves as sovereign beings, fully in charge of their growth and healing. The goal is not to "fix" but to help each individual reveal their pure creative light and step into their fullest potential.
Take the First Step Toward Healing.
You don't have to navigate this journey alone. If you’re ready to take the next step, I invite you to schedule a free 15-minute consultation so we can explore if working together feels like the right fit.
Schedule Your Free 15-Minute Consultation Today!
Let’s discuss your needs and how therapy can support your healing journey.
