Her Story
About cristina
I've been advocating for the last 15 years across different populations. I became a substance abuse counselor in 2017 after completing training and worked with women and children, families, dual diagnosis clients, pregnant and postpartum women. The work led to burnout and vicarious trauma, prompting a shift to my current remote role assisting Medicaid families with health insurance enrollment. I also serve as a chaplain running a women's ministry, providing spiritual support and prayer. I hold certifications in substance abuse counseling, medical assisting, life coaching, and grant writing, and am pursuing a bachelor's in Christian counseling.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with cristina
01What do you attribute your success to?
Definitely just allowing God to order my steps. Coming to him, making sure that I'm doing what His will, His plan for my life. Not just doing what I want and then realizing midway it's off track.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Don't stop learning. Don't stop blurring the lines between work and growth.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Give it all you got. Don't hold back or shrink yourself for fear or because of others. Show up and be excellent at what you do. The perfection will come naturally as you go through the process.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
As a Latina, sometimes I feel like I'm not seen or my voice is not heard, even when meeting metrics and going above and beyond. Challenges include not internalizing every workplace dynamic. Opportunities include being processed and developed, growing skills in how to speak to people, and learning not to beat yourself up over metrics since you are expendable if you stop producing.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Communication, Honesty, Integrity.
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