Aida Kastel

Hello! My name is Aida Kastel. I earned my bachelor's degree in psychology here at Cal Poly Humboldt. I am now excitedly in my first year as a graduate student in the Counseling Psychology program. Having an immigrant background, I feel fortunate to call Humboldt County ‘home’. I spent many years living in the mountains surrounding the mighty Klamath River, on the ancestral lands of the Yurok and Karuk people. Building community and finding ways to serve is a way I can express love for our shared humanity and hopefully create a greater sense of belonging with everyone I encounter.  

Professionally, I have been trained as a Community Mediator, helping people resolve conflict through a facilitated mediation process. I also have an extensive background in various spiritual teachings, mindfulness practices, somatic therapy, and breathwork. Some current counseling skills I am developing are ways to work with one’s inner critic using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, helping individuals find practical tools to deal with stress, anxiety and depression, and bringing trauma informed care into every session. 

I believe that our vulnerability is our biggest strength and reaching out for help is a courageous act. I am here to support you on your unique journey. I will bring an integrative approach to our work together that is anchored in empathy, understanding, presence and realness.