Christa Hoel, MA, LPCC
Child/Adolescent Therapist & Team Lead
Pronouns
She/Her
Education
MA Counseling & Psychological Services,
St Mary’s University of MN, 2019
BA Elementary Education,
University of Wisconsin, River Falls, 2011
Services Offered
Individual Psychotherapy
Clinical Supervision
Ages I Work With
3 years old - Adults.
My Approach to Care
Anchored Relational Therapy (Formerly AIR Network)
EMDR
SMART (Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Treatment)
DBT
Various experience in the following areas: Sand-tray, Developmental Repair, Synergetic Play Therapy
Areas of Specialization
I am especially passionate about working with individuals navigating complex trauma, attachment and developmental challenges, as well as those who identify as neurodivergent, including individuals with Autism and ADHD.
I also feel strongly about working with marginalized communities, particularly clients who are part of the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. It’s important to me that therapy is a space where clients feel safe and empowered to bring their full, authentic selves where all aspects of their identity are seen, respected, and affirmed.
My Decolonized/Anti-Oppressive Lens
I approach therapy through a decolonized and anti-oppressive lens, honoring each child and family’s unique cultural story and strengths. I strive to create a space where clients, especially those from historically marginalized communities feel seen, valued, and safe. I’m mindful of the power dynamics present in therapeutic relationships and work to foster collaboration, respect, and cultural humility.
This may include offering culturally reflective toys and materials, learning family-specific names, and continuing my own education outside of sessions so clients aren’t expected to teach me about their culture. Acknowledging the privilege I hold due to my own background, I remain committed to ongoing self-reflection and learning to ensure I show up in ways that are respectful, responsive, and rooted in compassion.
What I Hope Clients Feel After Working With Me
Regardless of a client’s age, history, background, or values, my hope is that therapy feels like a place where they truly belong. Whether it’s a child finding safety through play or a teen feeling understood without judgment, I hope each person experiences therapy as a space where they are seen, honored, and supported in deepening their connection to themselves.
I aim to support clients in trusting their own voice, exploring a sense of possibility, and recognizing that healing and change are possible at their own pace. While the work can be challenging, I believe that moments of connection, joy, playfulness, and humor can be the most influential in allowing us to discover who we are becoming and who we’ve always been.
Why I Chose This Work
Throughout my career as a coach, teacher, camp director, case manager, and more, I’ve always been drawn to supporting children and adolescents. No matter the role, I consistently found myself connecting with young people who were searching for a stronger sense of self, a more comfortable relationship with their bodies, and deeper, more meaningful connections with those around them.
I believe that every child deserves to be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect. Too often, their voices are overlooked or underestimated. My work is grounded in the belief that age should never define a young person’s worth, credibility, or value. I am committed to creating a safe, affirming space where kids and teens feel seen, heard, and empowered to be their authentic selves.
What I Enjoy Outside of Work
When I’m not working, you can usually find me soaking up the outdoors, collecting far more books than I’ll ever finish (ask me what’s on my TBR list), spending quality time with people I care about, and happily geeking out over all things related to how our amazing brains work.
My Favorite Quote
“Why would you want a world inside you that doesn't match the one you want to create outside yourself?” - from Andrea Ritchie’s book, “Practicing New Worlds”
