Kristen Francis
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.
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.
In our work together, you’ll develop practical coping strategies, build the psychological resilience to live more freely and create a relationship to your emotions that allows you to remain grounded in the face of stress and overwhelm.
First session
I believe in helping you how you work best, so all of my first sessions are uniquely catered to you. Some folks have been carrying their suffering for so long that they want to spill it all out. Some folks want to be asked direct questions. Wherever we start, you will be met with warmth, respect and always without judgment.
Strengths
I believe my greatest strength is the ability to cultivate safe and trusting relationships. Without safety we aren't able to be our true selves, learn or thrive. With this safety established, I am able to balance compassion and directness, which allows me to help clients address difficult topics without shame or blame.
Ideal clients
My ideal client is looking to actively participate in doing the work. I provide tangible skills and coping strategies for you to practice so that you can mold and navigate the life you are looking to live. This work is hard so there are no timelines, pressure or guilt trips. I provide an encouraging and supportive space that allows for fluctuation in both motivation and progress.
Treatment methods
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness is a brain exercise rooted in neuroscience. Together we will explore your automatic thoughts, behaviors and emotional experiences and strengthen your internal control center so you can relax your nervous system and make intentional decisions in moments of stress and overwhelm. Meditation is often incorporated but it is not required.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
Together we will identify your personal value system and prioritize it -even in the most stressful of moments. Value based living helps ease external pressures, internal cravings and behavioral impulses. Research shows that committing to value based living lowers levels of depression, anxiety and stress and enhances self-respect, self-esteem, confidence and authenticity.
Gender-affirming therapy
I provide a safe space for all folks to be themselves. I will use your preferred name and pronouns and won't pathologize your identity. I have experience supporting clients through identity exploration, transition and inviting in/coming out. Gender has societal/systemic/cultural relevance and implications and I bring this lens and understanding into my sessions. I will communicate about norms, status quos, privilege and systemic oppression as necessary. In session with me you are seen and respected.
Attachment-based
Attachment-focused methods help folks find safety and security within relationships which lead to healthier, emotionally regulated and stable partnerships, friendships, families, relationships at work and in community. Together we can build your trust, intimacy, ability to navigate power dynamics and increase your self worth and confidence in the presence of others.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Exploring our thoughts help us come in contact with beliefs that are no longer serving us. They may have helped keep us safe in the past by telling us to shrink, avoid or power through. I will provide you with the tools necessary to disrupt your outdated belief systems and gain the confidence to start believing in what you know to be healthy and true.
Location
Virtual sessions