Position:

Adjunct Professor

Contact Information:

jgrapa@paloaltou.edu

Education:

PhD Student, Counselor Education & Supervision, Palo Alto University 

MA, Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapy Emphasis, Palo Alto University
MA, Education – Instructional Technology, San José State University

Biography:

Jackie Bicas Grapa (she/her/ella) is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor based in California. She works in private practice, where she supports Latinx and immigrant communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, adoptees, couples, and clients navigating chronic illness or complex trauma. Her clinical background also includes experience in community mental health and school-based counseling, which has shaped her commitment to accessible, culturally responsive care across diverse systems and settings.

Her approach is grounded in trauma-informed, relational, and experiential frameworks. She draws from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), EMDR, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help clients reconnect with themselves and their communities in meaningful, healing ways. Her work centers on identity, resilience, and the impact of early experiences on adult relationships and wellbeing.

Interests:

Relational and intergenerational trauma; adoption and identity; chronic illness; LGBTQIA+ affirming care; culturally responsive work with Latinx and immigrant communities; counselor development and self-efficacy; trauma-informed and inclusive pedagogy; experiential learning in counselor education.