Hi, I’m Kerstin,

As an experienced therapist with specialized intensive training, I can help you make sense of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that may leave you feeling disconnected, alone, inadequate, and misunderstood. My goal is to help you break the painful cycle you are experiencing and find your way back to your own sense of well-being and happiness, or if you are seeking couples’ work, back to each other to feel connected, comforted, and cared for.

I believe that the first step towards transformation is to provide you with a sense of being understood. Together, we will work to make sense of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and how they may have been derailing your path to well-being and happiness. We will discover your strengths as well as the sources of your distress and then devise a more optimal way to use your strengths and deal with the distress so you can achieve your goals. 

 
 

To help you in this process of understanding, I draw upon my expertise in evidence-based psychotherapy techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), The Developmental Model (The Couples' Institute), and The Gottman Method (A Research-based Approach to Relationships) among others. I first identify the thoughts and behaviors that are maintaining your symptoms and then use these cutting-edge techniques to achieve both quick symptom relief and long-lasting change. I carefully tailor your treatment plan to your unique needs and preferences.

I have specialized couples counseling training using EFT, which was developed by Dr. Sue Johnson, a distinguished Research Professor at the highly accredited Alliant International University (AIU). I received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from AIU, where EFT has been recognized by the American Psychological Association as a treatment that has been empirically validated.

My understanding of my clients and my commitment to research-based, state-of-the-art treatment approaches enable me to support my clients in successfully accomplishing their goals.

 

Areas of expertise

 

  • Anxiety Disorder

  • Mood Disorders

  • Trauma

  • Relational Problems

  • Premarital Counseling

  • Stress Management and Coping Skills

  • Anger Management

  • Conflict Resolution Skills

 

  • Addictions

  • Loss and Grief Issues

  • Coping with Divorce/Infidelity

  • Parenting and Co-Parenting Skills 

  • Communication Skills

  • Boundary setting Skills

  • Self-esteem Issues

  • Family Conflict

  • Life Transitions

 

Testimonials

 

“Your approach is so warm and caring.  We can just feel how committed you are to helping us have that secure and loving relationship.” -MS

 

“I have worked with many therapists and you have been by far the best.  I have referred you to my psychiatrist and my personal physician. You have really helped me.” -BT