Kristina Isshak

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey with over 8 years of experience counseling and supporting individuals of all ages and backgrounds. I have previously worked in a hospital where I supported patients throughout their cancer treatment as well as in a university, supporting students in adjusting to life-stage changes and crises that impact their academic success. I also have experience working in an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP Mental Health Program) supporting clients through crisis. Ultimately, I made the shift to Outpatient Mental Health Care because I love the long-term relationships that I get to develop with my clients and supporting them through various stages of their lives.

My areas of interest include depression, anxiety, and adjusting to life changes - specifically the 18-35 year old age group adjusting to starting college, post-grad life, moving, relationship changes, and job transitions.

I am also EMDR trained and like using this modality to address trauma and deep-rooted negative core beliefs. Ask me more about it.

I started Heard Mentality because I believe that the first step to healing is being heard and understood. I wish to be a listening ear and support person as you navigate challenges throughout life.

My therapy style is warm and inviting while keeping conversations candid and lighthearted, decorated with puns and dad jokes. I believe an approach to mental health must be well-rounded, so I try to implement holistic practices into sessions, including CBT, DBT, strength-based, person-centered, solution-focused modalities to help empower each client towards accomplishing their goals, build confidence, and transform into the version of themselves that they are proud of.

My goal is to create a safe and compassionate environment for each person so they leave the session with a feeling of being heard and understood. I aim for you to leave with food for thought to help deepen your understanding of yourself and to help you make progress towards your goals and personal growth.