Kierstyn Mao
Kierstyn Mao
(She/they)
Frequently rebooked
New clients continue care with this provider
Hello! I am Kierstyn Mao, a licensed mental health counselor and Expressive Arts Therapist. I utilize arts modalities to promote embodiment and work through trauma at a somatic level. My creative directives help to promote psychological flexibility and positive change. Each session is anchored by ACT and CBT principles that are evidence-based and effective. In sessions, we may address themes of relational trauma, depression, identity, self-esteem, and anxiety. My goal is to provide an inclusive and anti-oppressive experience that puts the client in control of their treatment. If you thrive with transparency and structured directives, we could be a great therapeutic fit.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
I hope you will leave your first session feeling less afraid of your healing journey. You can expect to experience a sense of clarity and direction in your healing journey soon into your treatment with me. My approach seeks to break down barriers that have been built due to life stressors and trauma. You may feel more open to reconnecting with that childlike wonder that feels so distant--or maybe you never allowed yourself to feel. I use play, art-making, music, movement, and so much more to help you reconnect with this hidden part of yourself.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My strengths as your provider include having the creativity to truly meet you where you are at in your healing journey--and with the most unexpected artistic directives. I am able to sit in silence, to challenge you and hold space for the uncomfortable. I am able to make art with you and truly empathize with you. I am able to guide you into yourself while allowing you to have full agency in your treatment.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
It can be hard to know a clear direction in your healing journey. If you have struggled to remain consistent or make progress with traditional talk-based therapies before, Expressive Arts Therapy may be right for you. Sometimes, even when you have changed your thoughts and behaviors, you still might not feel any different. I can help you to embody and move through emotions that may have been deeply impacted by trauma. I can help you to rebuild your connection with your body so you can relearn how to experience and hold space for your painful feelings in a healthy way.
About Kierstyn Mao
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Trauma Informed Care
Trauma-informed care is integral to each and every session I provide. Through lived and clinical experience, I understand that trauma and oppression are widespread. I am mindful that each intervention I use will limit the possibility of the retraumatization of the client and create an anti-oppressive environment.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational interviewing allows me to assess clients' stage of change and guide them toward positive action. I use this method in each session to allow for person-centered care.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is an essential tool that I teach each client to be able to identify and engage with their thoughts, behaviors and emotions in a healthy way.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
Through CE courses, I have found that ACT assessment of values and actionable change to be an effective method of treatment for many clients. I utilize this with clients in order to address life satisfaction.