Kristen J. Small, a native of Southern California with over 15 combined years of mentoring, mental health and educational experience working with children, adults and individuals of all ages, is an avid believer in both fostering and promoting mental health and wellness for the whole individual. Kristen received both her Bachelors and Masters of Social Work degrees from Brescia University. With a diverse background and experience in domestic violence and suicide prevention, she works closely with clients to overcome stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges and past trauma. Kristen offers passionate and intentional service and support as she believes wholeheartedly that mental wellness is for everyone.

In her approach to counseling, Kristen acknowledges the connection between the mind and the body and views mental and physical challenges from a holistic, whole person perspective. With the understanding of external forces that can impact what a person may be experiencing within, she works with clients to identify the underlying emotional causes while empowering them to do “the work” as she supports them on their journey to wellness. Kristen’s therapeutic frame includes treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing.

I believe in people. I believe that we are all here on purpose, with purpose. I believe that we all are capable of living full, healed, wholehearted lives. And it is this belief that drives my passion and advocacy for mental health and wellness. With an understanding that it is impossible to conquer what we won’t confront, and an understanding of the truth that “the work starts within,” I consider it both a privilege and sacred honor to assist individuals in reaching their greatest potential by empowering them with the necessary tools to lead peaceful, fulfilling lives.

Specialties:

• Self Esteem

• Depression / Anxiety

• Codependency

• Domestic Violence

• Dual Diagnosis

• Coping Skills

• Emotional Disturbance

• Family Conflict

• Life Transitions

• Grief

• Mood Disorders

• Personality Disorders

• Marital and Premarital

• Mood Disorders

• Racial Identity

• Relationship Issues

• Self-Harming

• Spirituality

• Stress

• Trauma and PTSD

• Trained in Brainspotting Phase I