Kristen obtained her master’s degree in professional counseling with an emphasis on Adolescent and Childhood Disorders from Grand Canyon University. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology and Family Studies. She graduated in May of 2020 and in May of 2022 with her second master’s degree in education with an emphasis on autism spectrum disorders. Kristen is passionate about helping children, adolescents, neurodivergent people and adult women realize their potential as individuals and their roles in relationships. She has experience working with anxiety, depression, identity exploration, and autism/spectrum disorders - using a mix of therapeutic models for her clients, such as Creative Expressive, Play Therapy, Sandtray, AutPlay, Cognitive Behavioral and Person-Centered interventions. She is also AutPlay Certified. Kristen recognizes that the relationship between the therapist and client is very important and strives to build a strong foundation so that trust is the cornerstone and as much progress as possible can be made.
The first session will look like me making sure that I understand what your goals are, assisting you establishing those goals if you are not sure, and general rapport building. Mutual trust and respect are vital for therapy, and we will work on this in every session to make sure that you are getting the most out of your sessions.
Kristen feels that her biggest strengths are her empathy, relatability, and passion to continue learning. Kristen also struggles with ADHD, anxiety, depression, religious trauma, parental trauma, and food trauma. She strives to better herself daily, all the while adding new tools to the metaphorical toolbox to hand off to her clients. She wants to see her clients succeed, feeling empowered to take on the challenges of life, while she cheers them on from right beside them.
Female clients up to the age of 45-50. Male clients up to the age of 25.
I believe that you are in the driver's seat, and I am your passenger assisting you in navigating the journey. It is my upmost goal to provide you with unconditional positive regard in every one of our sessions.
As someone who is a part of this community, I strive to provide safe and affirming spaces for everyone that "enters" my office.
I have experience with this method for over five years. It does look differently virtually than in-person but can be just as effective. I am currently working on level one status and becoming a registered play therapist in the next few years.