Therapeutic Approach

Relational Therapy - Personalized and Intentional Psychotherapy

Relational Therapy

Backed by extensive research, relational therapy is one of the most effective therapeutic approaches in the field of mental health. By building a secure connection in therapy, a framework for safety and security can become a central force in how you interact with yourself and with the world.

A strong relational container can support challenges by providing the necessary strength and safety to talk about how our stories are impeding growth.

Modalities

Somatics
Gestalt
Person Centered
Psychologies of Liberation

My Style

I strive to meet each person with warmth, direct responses, realistic ideas, non-violent communication, thoughtful attention and focused energy.

About Me

Alexandra (Xana) Cook-Milligan MA AMFT #118936

My name is Xana (pronounced Shauna)

I work with the Center for Mindful Psychotherapy, offering virtual therapy for anyone in California.

I was born in Portugal and grew up on the California coast. I have an endless love for the ocean, art and music, and am blessed with a partner, three beautiful children and my always energetic dog.

I received my BA in Liberal Arts from San Francisco State University and my MA in Integral Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies. I completed my graduate training in San Francisco at the Integral Counseling Center at Church Street., where I trained in Gestalt Awareness Practice and Person-Centered therapies.

Before I became a therapist I was a chef for over a decade, then became a substitute teacher and a paraprofessional in the San Francisco Bay Area while I decided on my next career path. Along the journey of my own healing, I discovered that where I made the most impact was in direct support. The shift into the study and practice of therapy felt like the most natural thing I had ever done and I am grateful to have found this heart-centered work.

In 2020, at the start of my therapy career, I co-founded a non-profit educational organization, focused on racialized trauma. We engaged with uniformed bodies and provided educational community-centered support groups. During this time I also trained in Somatic Abolitionism with Resmaa Menakem MSW, deepening my lifelong study of how trauma, race and American white supremacy impact the human body.