Cheska Gustave, MS

Franceska (Cheska) (She/Her/They/Them) holds a Master’s of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. With extensive experience in mental health advocacy and counseling, Cheska is passionate about supporting adolescents and young adults in navigating challenges related to anxiety, stress management, and identity exploration. They specialize in fostering resilience and self-confidence in individuals as they work through life transitions and difficult circumstances, with a strong commitment to creating inclusive spaces for marginalized communities, including BIPOC, individuals with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ youth.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Cheska worked as an independent volunteer counselor, providing teens and young adults aged 15-21 with a safe and supportive space to express their concerns. They offered immediate assistance during emotional crises, connected clients to appropriate resources, and introduced tailored coping strategies such as mindfulness exercises, journaling, and stress management techniques. Their goal was to empower clients with tools to build resilience, emotional regulation, and self-care routines. Cheska’s experience also extends to working with children aged 3-10 as a Teaching Fellow at Standing Tall Daycare, where they focused on academic and social development using creative and interactive teaching methods.

Rooted in empathy, patience, and authenticity, Cheska creates a safe and supportive environment for clients. They prioritize active listening and a nonjudgmental approach, tailoring support to each client’s unique experiences. Cheska integrates mindfulness techniques and cognitive-behavioral approaches to help clients develop self-awareness and healthy coping mechanisms. As an athlete with 10 years of volleyball experience—including two years playing semi-professionally in London—and five years of track experience, Cheska values incorporating active approaches to mental health that promote both physical and emotional well-being.

In their free time, Cheska enjoys playing bass guitar, curating music playlists for friends, journaling, and expanding their fluency in American Sign Language, Portuguese, and Korean. They are a tea connoisseur and a devoted animal lover, especially to their four-month-old kitten, Lugosi. Guided by their favorite quote, “Kindness begins with the understanding that we all struggle,” Cheska strives to provide unwavering support, patience, and understanding to every individual they work with.