Kristen MacLean
B.A (Hons), M.A, M.A.C.P
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying) licensed to practice in Ontario. I hold a Master’s degree in Sociology, a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, and a Bachelors of Arts in Criminal Justice Studies. Throughout my career I focused on specializing in trauma-informed care, supporting survivors and victims of crime, and working with individuals involved in the justice system through restorative justice principles. I love to read fiction books, play music, unwind with video games once in a while, and I try to get outside in nature whenever I can. I strongly believe that understanding our strengths, building resilience, and learning more about our environments can have an incredible impact on how we perceive, think, and feel about ourselves and others. It’s my hope that we can work together, learn from each other, and face life’s obstacles through person-centered and strength-based counseling.
My previous work history includes working as a psychotherapist for a sexual violence support centre and working for five years in law-enforcement as a Probation & parole officer. Prior to that I worked at Nipissing University as a teaching assistant for the Sociology department. I hold knowledge in applying leading trauma treatments in the following fields: gender-based violence, sexual violence, childhood trauma, combat trauma, accident trauma, or other single-incident trauma. Additionally, I have experience working with individuals who are struggling with mental health concerns or general stressors like anxiety or depression, life stressors, difficult life transitions, relationship concerns, and grief or loss.
My approach to therapy is a hybrid one drawing from behavioural therapies, humanistic therapies, expressive arts therapies, emotionally focused therapies, and talk-therapy skills. I am a strong advocate for increasing resilience and self-compassion using strength-based models.
I adopt a trauma-informed and culturally competent practice where I too am continuously learning and growing with you. So let’s both work together to achieve goals; however that may look for you!
“Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen” – Brene Brown