Cherina Medina, LCSW
Experienced mental health professional
Provides online counseling through BetterHelp
At a glance
Cherina is an experienced, licensed Mental Health Professional who specializes in affordable online therapy offered through our partner, BetterHelp.
- FSA/HSA accepted
- Offers Telehealth visits
- Licensed in California and Colorado
More about Cherina
- 15 years' experience
- Non-binary
- LCSW
CJ Medina, here. I am a trauma-informed Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and Colorado who has worked with at-risk youth, veterans, and people with disabilities. Though, I primarily work with children recently, I have worked with adults in many capacities. I would like to have a balance of adults and youth 13-19 years old. Any younger and telehealth is not the medium for me because of the need for direct play. Adults need to access their inner child, too. I have 15 years experience with kindergarten through higher education and beyond. Special Education is my specialty, and I am old and wise in the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process, disability law, and targeted counseling services. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is my original specialty for children and adults and I have extensive knowledge, psychoeducation, and coping skills/tools to share. I also am a trauma-informed counselor. A sexual assault trained counselor. And super funny to talk to. I am also a Rodeo Clown after all. True story.
I have a deep passion for my work and I know it is my sacred purpose. I am Native American (Apache and Navajo/N'de Diné) and I integrate some of my traditions of mindfulness/prayer, meditation, and instructive storytelling into my practice if the client is open to it. My sense of humor is a very important component. I believe that laughter is healing and a momentary relief. What might be happening for you might not be funny, but we'll imagine what it would be like if you had to tell your story at the comedy club. That is, if you're ready for that. Otherwise, I know when to be serious, I know when to listen, and I know when to stop talking myself. It's your session.
You, as a client, are ready to address your fears, perceived obstacles and are inspired to take care of yourself in this way. You have decided therapy can be helpful and provide you with the third-party, unbiased ear that you can't get from friends and family. I am just yours. You're very own counselor. Hopefully you enjoy telling and hearing stories, because I am interested in yours. If you like to laugh, I believe that's one of the best medicines. Being able to cry is a great release. If you come with an open mind and heart, we can do great work together.
Specialties
Insurance Accepted
- Anthem Blue Cross California
- Cigna
- GEHA
- Optum
- UMR
- UnitedHealthcare
Treatment Approaches
- Client-Centered Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Licenses
Cherina Medina's National Provider Identifier (NPI) is 1114429701.
- LCSW · California · 116770 · Renews July 2027
- LCSW · Colorado · CSW.09932330 · Renews August 2027
About online counseling
- Affordable.
- Pay a low flat fee.
- Convenient.
- Do it at your own time and at your own pace. Communicate whenever you feel it's needed.
- Available now.
- There is no waiting list and no calls to make. Simply fill out a short questionnaire and send your first message.
Online counseling, also known as teletherapy, is a method of delivering mental health services through digital means such as video conferencing, phone calls, or messaging platforms. It can be an ideal option for individuals who have difficulty accessing traditional therapy due to geographical distance, time constraints, or personal preferences like privacy and comfort. Many people find it easier to open up from the familiarity of their own space.
Teletherapy has been found to be highly effective, with studies showing that it can produce similar outcomes to in-person therapy, particularly for issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The flexibility and accessibility it offers make it a valuable alternative to conventional therapy settings.
Reviews for Cherina Medina
Frequently asked questions
Does Cherina Medina offer telehealth visits?
Yes. Cherina Medina works with clients by exchanging messages, chatting live, speaking over the phone, or video conferencing based on what works for the client at that particular time.
What language(s) does Cherina Medina speak?
Cherina Medina speaks English.
How many years of experience does Cherina Medina have?
Cherina Medina has 15 years of experience.
Where is Cherina Medina licensed to practice?
Cherina Medina is licensed to practice in California and Colorado.
Does Cherina Medina accept FSA/HSA?
Yes, Cherina Medina accepts FSA/HSA meaning you can pay for sessions with your pre-tax healthcare dollars. Every year hundreds of thousands of people use their FSA/HSA to pay for therapy.
Does Cherina Medina accept insurance?
Yes, Cherina Medina accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Cigna, GEHA, Optum, UMR, and UnitedHealthcare.
Does Cherina Medina accept clients outside of the United States?
No, Cherina Medina does not accept clients outside of the United States.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Numerous studies support the effectiveness of online platforms in facilitating life changes. For instance, research published by JMIR Publications, conducted by teams from the University of Berkeley, UCSF, and SF General Hospital, found that "users of BetterHelp experienced significantly reduced depression symptom severity after engaging with the platform."
What treatment approaches does Cherina Medina offer?
Cherina Medina offers clients Client-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
How can I communicate with Cherina Medina?
Cherina Medina can be engaged in any one of four ways: (1) Exchanging messages, (2) chatting live, (3) speaking over the phone, or (4) video conferencing. You can use different ways at different times as you wish, based on your needs, availability, and convenience.
How do I get started with Cherina Medina?
Just tap the BOOK NOW button or tap here: A new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation.
Mental health conditions are real, common, and treatable.
And recovery is possible.
When you tap BOOK NOW a new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation.