I am a clinical social worker who has been in the field since about 2012. I have extensive experience with family conflict, complex trauma, rejection, depression, social anxiety, distrust, emotion regulation and substance use. I come from a 3rd Wave Behavior Change background which leans heavily into mindfulness and value based living. I also incorporate an incredible amount of compassion.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

First sessions vary from client to client. Some folks have pent up years of thoughts and emotions and are eager to spill it all out and some folks are a bit nervous and don't know where to start. Wherever you are, you will be met with openness, compassion and undivided attention. Often times in the first few sessions I'll ask about relationships, primary areas of struggle, treatment goals, and ask some questions that help to frame a potential intervention.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I believe that everyone deserves the life they want to be living. I believe that we are all equals. I believe that everyone is lovable and needs a sense of belonging to thrive. I have a strong sense of compassion and encourage my client's to be their own best friends. As a social worker I understand that we are humans living within systems and structures of all kinds and often times these systems and structures fail us and harm us. I am warm, direct and can even use a bit of humor when appropriate.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

The clients I seem to have the greatest impact on are those who have felt rejected, neglected or less-than somehow. So many of my clients over the years have suffered from perfectionism, overachieving, loose boundaries, negative self-talk, a sense of hopelessness for the future and have a general low sense of self worth. My greatest asset is encouraging folks to to believe that they are valuable, lovable and can live the life they believe is worth living.

About Kristen Francis