My practice is heavily rooted in Mindfulness-based interventions, proven effective for depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, focus and attention, emotion management and cultivating self compassion. I graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Social Work in 2008 and the University of Denver with a Master of Social Work in 2012. I recently completed the Mindfulness and Meditation Teacher Training Certificate Program taught by Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Trust and safety is my top priority. I cultivate a warm and respectful climate which allows you to tap into your vulnerable side in order for me to have an acute understanding of you and your treatment goals.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
When it comes to my clinical modalities, Mindfulness is what sets me apart from many other clinicians. However, I believe my greatest strength is the ability to cultivate a safe and trusting relationship with my clients. I am able to balance compassion and directness, something my clients state they appreciate about my approach.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I'm best suited to serve clients who experience patterns of behaviors they'd like to see themselves break free from, folks who experience emotional overwhelm and folks who experience invasive thoughts and negative self-talk. I also have extensive experience with unhealthy family dynamics.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness is a brain exercise. It physically reworks your internal alarm system (the amygdala) to stay calm and strengthens your internal control center (the prefrontal cortex) so that you can hop off autopilot and make intentional decisions in moments of stress and overwhelm. It also has a bonus effect of offering us internal peace on a more regular basis.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
ACT helps us identify our personal value system and stay committed to it, even in the face of adversary. Living a value-driven life helps us persevere through external pressures, internal cravings and behavioral impulses. Consistently acting in line with our values enhances self-respect, self-esteem and fosters confidence and authenticity. Research shows that living in alignment with personal values is linked to lower levels of depression, anxiety and stress.
Compassion Focused
With CFT we are able to calm our central nervous system and increase feelings of safety, relaxation and connection. CFT is particularly effective for those who experience self-criticism, shame, guilt and chronic rejection which are often linked to depression, anxiety, substance use and other trauma reactions.
3 ratings with written reviews
April 23, 2025
Kristen is very compassionate, I really enjoy my sessions with her!
April 1, 2025
Highly recommend working with Kristen! She is very empowering and grounding.
March 4, 2025
She is so nice and she has helped me so much. She has offered multiple ways for me to cope and she is very positive!