About

The Chicana Therapist

Hi, I’m Xochilt Alamillo, a Chicana therapist, social worker, educator, and community mental health advocate.
I created this space because so many of us grew up hearing that therapy wasn’t “for us,” or that strength meant staying quiet. But our stories and identities deserve care. Healing in our communities has its own history, its own rhythm, and its own cultural truth, and it deserves to be honored.

Over the years, I’ve learned that clients aren’t the only ones who need support. Clinicians, especially BIPOC clinicians, also need places to grow, be seen, and reconnect with their purpose without burning out. This site brings all of that together: culturally grounded reflections, honest mental health conversations, and offerings like retreats, workshops, and coaching for those ready to heal, lead, and create their own path.

Coaching

Coaching designed to help clinicians grow, lead, and create their own way.

Speaking

I offer speaking engagements that bring culturally grounded insight, practical tools, and honest conversations about mental health and community care.

Retreats

I offer retreats designed to help women slow down, reconnect with themselves, and find support in community.

Hi, I’m Xochilt Alamillo

A bit More about me

I’m Dr. Xochilt Alamillo, PhD, LCSW — a Chicana therapist, educator, researcher, and community mental health advocate. I’m the daughter of Mexican immigrants, a first-generation college graduate, and someone who has spent my life navigating the in-between spaces of culture, identity, and belonging. Those experiences shape everything I do.

I hold a PhD in Social Work from the University of Denver, where my research focused on Latina youth suicidality, bicultural stress, and the intersections of culture, gender, and family. I am also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience providing trauma-informed therapy to adults, youth, and families, with a specialization in the mental health of Latinx and BIPOC communities.

I founded Vida Counseling, LLC and The Chicana Therapist as spaces where our stories, identities, and healing are honored without needing to be translated or justified. My approach blends clinical expertise, research, and the cultural knowledge passed down through generations, all with the belief that healing should feel accessible, honest, and rooted in who we are.

When I’m not working, you can usually find me tending to my plants, spending time with my family, writing, or dreaming up new ways to support my community. Everything I do comes back to that purpose: building spaces where people, especially those who’ve been overlooked or silenced, can feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Coaching for Clinicians Ready to Do This Work in Their Own Way

My coaching helps mental health providers step beyond the limits of traditional practice and create income streams that reflect their expertise and lived experience. We work together to explore what’s possible, build clarity around your goals, and design offerings that feel aligned with who you are. This is a space to expand without losing yourself.

Real Life Stories

I needed this retreat!

This retreat felt like a deep breath for my mind and spirit. Dr. Xochilt blends cultura, reflection, and real conversations in a way that feels both healing and empowering. I walked away feeling lighter, supported, and more connected to myself and other women.

S.B.

I found my own way

As a Latina clinician, I often felt unsure about stepping into business ownership. Dr. Xochilt understood that on a cultural level and guided me with honesty, encouragement, and real-world strategy. Because of her mentorship, I launched a practice that actually reflects my values and the community I serve.

M.T.

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