Kristen Spell, LCMHC
Children + Adolescent + Adult/Parents therapist
Contact Kristen Today!
(She / Her)
KSpell@DavidsonFamilyTherapy.com
I enjoy working with a variety of ages- children, teenagers, adults, and parents. My areas of focus with clients include ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, trauma, and parenting.
When working with clients, I view my role as supporter, facilitator, and advocate. There are many layers to mental health and I strive to see clients from a holistic viewpoint. I work alongside clients to process their lifelong timeline - reviewing attachments, childhood, relationships, traumas, family cycles, etc. I believe that everyone has within them the ability to heal, question, learn and unlearn all the components needed for desired change. My goal is to provide a safe, empathetic environment where clients feel like they can be themselves and talk freely.
I practice from a person-centered, strengths based approach. I trust each client’s self-direction during sessions, while also incorporating various counseling theories and techniques that assist the client’s goals. I utilize cognitive behavior therapy, attachment theory, narrative therapy, expressive arts therapy, and solution-focused therapy, among others.
I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and utilize the techniques with clients when appropriate. IFS is a safe way to process trauma, get to know the varying parts of ourselves (even the uncomfortable ones), and learn how to align with our needs. I also have a unique interest in working with clients who have religious trauma and those who would like to incorporate spirituality into their therapeutic work.
I am a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) and use play therapy with children ages 3-12. Play is the language of children and play therapy supports developmental growth, boosts self-esteem, and allows the child to explore their emotions in an appropriate way. Play therapy may include talking, creative arts, role play, structured activities, and more, depending on the child’s needs and therapeutic goals. I include parents in the therapeutic process by meeting at least every 4-6 sessions with their child.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Registered Play Therapist, and a National Certified Counselor. I have experience as a school counselor and 504 coordinator. I attended Appalachian State University and earned a Bachelor’s degree in sociology, a Bachelor’s degree in social work, and a Master’s degree in counseling. I also completed the play therapy graduate certificate program at The University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
I meet with clients both in person and virtually at this time.