Kristie Pagel Compagner

I have a Master's degree in clinical social work. I have been practicing for 33 years. With a career spanning a variety of settings; outpatient therapy, case managment, crisis intervention, emergency department social worker, and as a medical social worker in a large hospital system. My approach is rooted in warmth and empathy. Creating a safe and accepting environment in a space free of judgement is extremely important to me. I view the process of therapy as examining past, present, and future. What in a person's life shaped them, what is working well and what is not working well in the present, and what does the individual desire to change for their future.

I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to the unique needs of each individual. It is important to meet my client's where they are and to collaboratively determine the modalities and strategies that feel like the best fit. My clinical experience includes working with individuals who are managing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, adjustment related issues, medical/physical health changes, grief/loss, complex family and relational dynamics. Through therapy my clients can expect to gain emotional resilience, improved coping skills, improved problem-solving skills, deeper insight/awareness, assertive communication, improved view of self, and self-advocacy skills.

During our first session we will spend time getting to know each other. We will work on completing the initial assessment and begin identifying and outlining goals of treatment. I understand therapy can be scary and intimidating. We will take things on step at a time.