LCSW, 12 years of experience
Hello! My name is Kristen Francis and I am a clinical social worker with over a decade of experience. I have extensive experience working with folks struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, negative self-talk, low self-esteem, relationship issues and emotion management. My practice is heavily rooted in Mindfulness-based interventions, incorporating present moment awareness, grounded presence and value-based living. I meet all of my clients with respect, compassion and equality.
In our first session together, you can expect to be asked how you would like this first session to go. Ready to lay everything on the table? Great. Need a bit more time to build rapport before vulnerability takes place? That's perfect. Some folks are pent up and looking for a release and others are trepidatious and need more time. Wherever you are, whatever you need, I am here for it.
As a social worker, I understand that we are all humans living within systems and structures, and for most of us, these systems and structures perpetuate harm. With this approach, I work with my clients to demystify suffering and alleviate blame and shame, encouraging groundedness, empowerment and autonomy.
Openness, curiosity and willingness is the foundation to a healthy working relationship. You don't have to know where to start, or even where you are trying to go, but if you bring to session an availability to explore and a willingness to practice new skills, we will be better positioned for your success.
Mindfulness has been shown to promote neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize itself. This allows for more adaptive responses to stress, trauma and emotional challenges. Mindfulness practice is associated with lower levels of cortisol (stress hormone) and decreased reactivity in the amygdala (fight, flight, freeze, fawn) and increased activity in the prefrontal cortex (decision making, emotion regulation, impulse control).
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.
CFT draws on neuroscience to explain how different brain systems (e.g., threat, drive, and soothing systems) influence our emotions and behaviors. 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 of us who experience self-criticism and shame, which are often linked to depression, anxiety and trauma.
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!