About Jackie
Hi, I'm Jackie Castro — a trauma-informed therapist with over two decades of experience helping adults heal from the lasting effects of childhood pain, difficult relationships, and the emotional burdens we carry far too long.
I work especially well with people who've always felt "too much" or "not enough" — those who are ready to look at the patterns holding them back and want to feel more regulated, seen, and safe in their lives. I'm EMDR-trained and currently pursuing certification, with advanced training in Complex PTSD. My work blends nervous system regulation, polyvagal theory, mindfulness, psychoeducation, and relational warmth. Sessions with me are collaborative, human, and often include moments of laughter — because healing doesn't have to feel clinical or cold.
Clients often say I'm easy to talk to — warm, open-minded, and never judgmental. I'm sex-positive, kink-aware, neurodivergent-affirming, and LGBTQIA+ friendly. I specialize in working with adults 21+ who are navigating anxiety, mood swings, relationship struggles, or the deep but often invisible effects of early trauma — especially around hurtful or emotionally unavailable mothers. My own childhood included that kind of pain, which led me to this work and fuels my passion for helping others reclaim their sense of self.
I'm also co-founder of a nonprofit that supports children with disabilities and run a monthly LEGO® Club for autistic children — part of my commitment to inclusion and affirming neurodivergence in all its forms. Outside of therapy, I'm actively involved in trauma-focused continuing education, lead an EMDR peer consultation group, and stay engaged with the wider therapy community.
If you're ready to do meaningful trauma work at your own pace — and want a therapist who is seasoned, steady, and genuinely cares — I'd be honored to walk alongside you.
My Philosophy
It takes courage to seek out any kind of therapy. Most of us have been taught to not express our vulnerable thoughts and feelings. It's a big deal to ask for help. I'm always honored when a client chooses me to lead them down the path to self-discovery.
Training
EMDR Basic Training / Certification in Process
Trauma Therapist Institute
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional
Evergreen Certifications
Certified Grief Recovery Specialist
Grief Recovery Institute, Sherman Oaks, CA
Post Graduate Work
University for the Advanced Study of Human Sexuality, San Francisco, CA
MA Clinical Psychology
Antioch University, Los Angeles, CA
Credits
Author
Book: Fetish and You
Book: Sex, Fetish and Him
Columnist
Children's Craniofacial Association
Ravishly
VICE
Bello
Rebel Circus