Dr. Kristen Garubba  
Associate Clinical  Director

Dr. Kristen earned a Doctorate  Degree in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University in 2014, and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University.  Dr. Kristen is also a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) - certified by the State of California Board of Behavioral Health. As a clinical director at Hillside Laguna, Dr. Kristen brings a wealth of experience in both management of effective psychotherapy modalities, and holistic approach to recovery and maintaining an addict's sobriety from alcohol, prescription and illicit drugs. ​ She  takes substance abuse treatment to a higher level by providing more frequent individual psychotherapy sessions, family, couples, and group therapy.  

Dr. Kristen gained prominence in the field of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.  (CBT) where she mastered short-term, goal-oriented psychotherapy trauma focused treatment with a hands-on, practical approach to problem-solving for over 7 years.  

Dr. Kristen has the ability to develop rapport with everyone she works with; clinical team members, and patients.  She has patience, warmth, and overall compassion which has led to her success even with the most difficult of cases.

Dr. Kristen’s work with different populations; male, female, young and old  have led her to gain a wide breadth of experience and the ability to work with many different types of patients. Dr. Kristen is a valuable asset to Hillside Laguna’s Integrated Behavioral Health Program. She strongly believes that the patient comes first. She always advocates for the patient’s healthy recovery and continued sobriety. Dr. Kristen works well with Hillside Laguna’s overall mission and philosophy taking each and every patient from early stages of assessments starting with a wide array of PAIN, NUTRITION, SUICIDE, and TRAUMA assessment. ​