Kristen Helfrich

Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been working in the mental health and substance use field for over 18 years. I've been professionally licensed for the last 5 years, but my passion for helping people has been at the heart of my career from the beginning.

I specialize in working with individuals with substance use disorders and/or concerns, depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, as well as those navigating the emotional challenges of pregnancy and the postpartum period.

I am a warm, compassionate person, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to support people through their most challenging moments.

My approach to therapy is person-centered as I believe you are the expert to your own life. My goal is to really listen, support you, understand where you're coming from, and work alongside you to find tools and strategies that fit your life. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help identify thought patterns and behaviors that may be getting in the way of your well-being, while also incorporating mindfulness to help you stay grounded and more connected to the present moment.

I like to meet each person where they are and tailor therapy to their individual needs. My goal is to create a safe, judgment free space where you feel comfortable being transparent, while working together toward meaningful and lasting change.

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin understanding what brought you to therapy. I'll ask questions about what you've been experiencing, your history, current challenges, and what you hope to get out of therapy.

Most importantly, I want you to feel comfortable, heard, and supported. There is no expectation that you have to have it all figured out or know exactly what to say.

Together, we will begin identifying what you would like to work on and develop realistic, meaningful goals for therapy. These goals may change as we continue working together, and we'll regularly check in to make sure therapy is meeting your needs.

Depending on what feels appropriate for you, we may begin introducing coping strategies or tools the first session, such as CBT techniques, mindfulness, or other skills you can use between sessions.

My goal is for you to leave your first session feeling heard, understood, and hopeful about the work we can do together.