LISW, 8 years of experience
New to Grow
Kiersten DeFord, LISW-S : Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor Designation After receiving my masters in social work from Wright State University, I have had the privilege of walking alongside individuals for the past 8 years as they navigate both the heaviness, and hope life brings. Their challenges and the quiet transformations. Based in Dayton, I serve clients across Ohio through virtual therapy, and I’m passionate about creating a space that feels safe, kind, and human. My approach is deeply reflective and rooted in kindness. I believe therapy is less about “fixing” and more about creating space for discovery, healing, and growth. Together, we’ll explore the patterns, emotions, and stories that shape your life—at a pace that feels safe and honoring to you. My goal is to help you not only manage difficult seasons, but also cultivate deeper self-understanding, resilience, and compassion for yourself. I see therapy as a space where you don’t have to carry things alone. My role is to sit with you, listen deeply, and help you untangle the thoughts and feelings that may feel overwhelming. I’m not here to tell you who to be, but to walk alongside you as you figure out what feels right for your life. Clients often describe me as grounding, and compassionate, with an energy that makes it easier to open up. I strive to create a space where you can breathe, reflect, and feel truly heard—like talking with someone who cares about you and your story, and supports you while you reconnect with your strengths and move toward the life you want to create.
Our first conversation will be about you—your story, what’s been weighing on you, and what you hope to get out of therapy. There’s no pressure to have it all figured out; we’ll take things at your pace. I’ll ask some questions to get to know you better, and together we’ll begin to shape a path towards a personalized treatment plan forward. My goal is for you to leave that first session feeling heard, understood, and a little lighter knowing you don’t have to navigate things on your own. Additionally, we will also address any safety concerns and review confidentiality to ensure you feel secure and supported.
I’m someone who believes therapy should feel safe, comfortable, and human. Therapy should feel like a supportive, steady presence in your life. I bring strong communication skills, warmth, curiosity, and kindness into our work together, and I want you to feel like you can show up just as you are. My style is reflective and supportive—I listen deeply, ask thoughtful questions, and gently help you notice the patterns and strengths that are already within you.
I work with adults, young adults, and teens who are navigating life’s many transitions—whether it’s school, work, relationships, or figuring out who you are and who you want to become. I’m here for anyone who’s looking for a space to reflect, process, and grow, especially if you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just in need of a supportive presence as you work through life’s challenges. I’m passionate about helping people of all ages build self-understanding, resilience, and a stronger sense of direction—so you can approach life with more clarity, confidence, and self-compassion. Additionally, I have a dedicated history of working with, and supporting clients with women’s issues including fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum.
With CBT, we explore the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, identifying patterns that may be holding you back.
Motivational Interviewing helps tap into your own motivation and goals, guiding you toward choices that feel right for you.
Through a strengths-based lens, we focus on the qualities and resources you already possess, building confidence and resilience along the way.