Kristina Kukla, LMSW

she/her

Your story matters.

Your story is important, and I’m here to listen. I find deep fulfillment in connecting with others and getting to know you on a personal level, remembering the little details that make you unique.

It’s okay to not feel okay all the time. Whether you’re battling anxiety, navigating depression, managing ADHD, or facing one of life’s many transitions, therapy can offer a place to slow down, feel understood, and start making sense of what you’re going through. You don’t have to carry it alone, and you don’t need to have it all figured out to begin.
 

In my work, I focus on supporting high school and college students, as well as women in seasons of change. That might include adjusting to adulthood, shifting careers, healing from trauma, or redefining your identity. These moments can feel overwhelming and disorienting. Many of the individuals I work with feel emotionally stuck, disconnected from themselves, or unsure of what comes next. Together, we work to gently untangle what’s holding you back and begin building a path toward clarity, confidence, and meaningful change.

My therapeutic approach is compassionate, collaborative, and rooted in evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness. I also believe that our past experiences and current stressors are deeply interconnected, so our work may include both reflection and skill-building. Some sessions may focus on processing emotions or past pain, while others may be more practical, developing tools to help you cope, regulate, and move forward in your day-to-day life. Everything we do is tailored to your unique pace, values, and goals.

My passion for therapy began with a deep desire to help others feel seen, safe, and supported. From a young age, I knew I wanted to create space for people to be fully themselves, especially in the moments they feel most unsure. That calling led me to this work, and I continue to be inspired by the resilience and growth I witness every day.

You are not too much. You are not behind. You are worthy of support, care, and connection. I would be honored to walk alongside you as you navigate your journey.

EDUCATION

  • BA, Central Michigan University
  • Master of Social Work, University of Denver
  • Currently a Ph.D candidate in Mind-Body Medicine, Saybrook University
    • Expected 2027

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)
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Person-Centered Therapy
"Kristina is extremely kindhearted and genuine. Very easy to talk to, you never feel like she’s judging you or making decisions for you. You feel like you're a real partner in therapy."
"She has a strong background working with those affected by domestic violence and really knows how to connect well with this population. Kristina is so passionate about helping people, especially women, feel empowered in tough situations."
“Compassionate and a very good listener! Kristina has a natural way of making you feel heard and understood. You can tell that she really cares about people and she’s in the right field.”
It’s completely normal to feel nervous about starting therapy. Beginning therapy for the first time can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. I’m here to help ease those nerves. One of the best ways to move through that fear is to explore where it’s coming from, and we can do that together at your pace.
 
There’s no need to rush the process. In our first session, we can simply get to know each other, and you’re welcome to ask any questions you have. Most people describe me as laid-back and easy to talk to. I don’t put pressure on anyone to do therapy in a certain way. There is no right or wrong way to do this. I’ll meet you where you are and help you figure out what feels most supportive for you.
 
I believe healing happens when we acknowledge, allow, accept, and process our emotions, no matter how big or small. Self-compassion is key, and healing is rarely linear. I would love to explore what healing and wellness look like for you, based on your unique story and needs.
 
You matter. You are worthy of support. And you deserve to live a life that feels free, grounded, and fulfilling.

FAVORITE SELF-CARE

For me, self-care looks like slowing down and reconnecting with things that make me feel alive and grounded. I love being outside, whether it’s going for a walk, sitting near the water, or just breathing in fresh air. Travel is also a huge reset for me. Exploring new places helps me step out of my routine and feel inspired again. I make space for intentional breaks, massages when I need to release tension, and getting lost in a good book. Self-care doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to support the version of you that you’re trying to take care of.

FUN FACTS

  • My home is run by a pack of very spoiled dogs and one strong-willed bunny.
  • I’m a big fan of Michigan summers. Nothing beats lake days, farmers markets, and all the hidden gems this state has to offer.
  • I grew up on a hobby farm, which gave me a deep appreciation for nature, animals, and a slower pace of life.
  • I believe in practicing what I preach, whether it’s setting boundaries, staying grounded, or taking a moment to gratitude journal.
  • I’m in the later stages of my Ph.D. in Mind-Body Medicine and learning so much about how our thoughts, emotions, and bodies all work together.

LIFE MOTTO

“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.”

A reminder I carry with me often, both personally and in the work I do. Healing is not about erasing the past, but about choosing who we want to become in the process.