Kristina Kukla, LLMSW
Your story matters.
Everyone has a story to tell. We all need someone who will listen without judgment. I’m most fulfilled when listening to the lived experiences of others and I naturally develop close relationships with people, getting to know you on a deeper level, remembering the little details, and always being there for you.
Ever since I was young, I’ve had an unwavering interest in helping people work through problems. This interest combined with my passion for mental health and trauma drove me to become a therapist. I’ve always wanted to make a difference and have an impact on the lives of others.
I believe in the power of therapy and the therapeutic relationship to help create meaningful growth and positive change in one’s life. Therapy is a collaborative process. I listen to your stories, seeking to understand the ways in which your experiences have impacted you, and together we will create an individualized treatment plan based on your needs, desires, and goals.
Therapy is an empowering process that can guide you to a healthier mindset both inside and out. In every session, I strive to make my everyone feel comfortable, heard, and understood. I love creating a judgment-free zone while helping others navigate their thoughts, feelings, and behavior. I would be honored to meet you and give you the space to authentically be yourself, where you can feel completely supported and validated as together we confront whatever you are facing. You are never alone and I want you to know that I’m here for you.
EDUCATION
- BA, Central Michigan University
- Master of Social Work, University of Denver
WORKS WITH
- Children (8-12 years old)
- Teens (13-19 years old)
- Young Adults (20-29 years old)
- Adults (30-45 years old)
TYPES OF THERAPY
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT)
- Person-Centered Therapy
- Strength-Based Therapy
It’s completely normal to be nervous about starting therapy. Starting therapy for the first time can be a scary experience, but I’m here to help ease your nerves. One of the best ways to move past your fear of starting therapy is to figure out exactly why you’re nervous, and we can do that together!
There is no need to rush the process. In the first appointment, we can simply get to know each other and you can ask me whatever questions you have. Most people find me to be laid-back and casual, and I think it’s because I don’t put any pressure on individuals to do therapy in any particular way. There is no right or wrong way to do therapy. I’m here to help you figure out what would be most helpful for you. I’m flexible and we can go at your pace.
Above all, I believe people find wellness by acknowledging, allowing, accepting, and processing their feelings and emotions, no matter how big or small. It’s important that we all practice self-compassion and understand that healing isn’t linear. I would love to talk about what healing and wellness looks like for you. Remember that you matter and you deserve to live a life of freedom and fulfillment.
FAVORITE SELF-CARE
Self-care is very important to me! I maintain a pretty regular schedule of working out, massages, chiropractic care, and yoga. I also really love the outdoors — being near water and breathing in fresh air really helps ground me.
FUN FACTS
- I loveeeeee true crime podcasts.
- TikTok is my favorite app ever created. I love that it’s such a creative outlet for people. I could scroll for hours if I had the time.
- I have two dogs — a Border Collie/Lab mix, Indy & a Pomeranian, Koko.
LIFE MOTTO
It’s so cliche, but “this too shall pass” are words I live by. I have it tattooed on my arm as a reminder that whatever difficult situation we are currently going through in life, it is temporary and it will change. Hope is always possible.
