Carlyss Kurtti, LPCC

Carlyss Kurtti, LPCC, is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in North Dakota with 18 years of experience supporting people through a wide range of mental health and life challenges. She earned a Master of Science in Counseling from North Dakota State University and draws on that training to create individualized treatment plans that reflect each client's needs and goals. Carlyss works with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults and has particular experience assisting survivors of abuse and domestic violence, people navigating divorce and grief, and those coping with trauma and codependency.

Carlyss blends practical, evidence-informed approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness practices, and client-centered techniques to help clients manage symptoms and rebuild a meaningful life. Her therapeutic style is warm, patient, and non-judgmental, grounded in respect and unconditional positive regard, and she adapts sessions to the concerns presented in the moment.

Areas of focus include stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, depression, addictions, ADHD, parenting and family challenges, eating and body image issues, bipolar disorder, and compassion fatigue. Carlyss emphasizes collaboration, helping clients identify realistic steps toward change while honoring their values and strengths. She is committed to excellent client care and welcomes the opportunity to support people through transitions and recovery.

Approaches That Guide Online Therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify what matters most to them and take values-guided action, even when difficult thoughts and feelings are present. It is useful for anxiety, depression, chronic stress, and life transitions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thinking and behavioral patterns to reduce symptoms and improve coping; it is commonly used for anxiety, mood concerns, trauma-related symptoms, and problem behaviors. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches practical skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness, which can be especially helpful for intense emotions, relationship struggles, and impulse-related difficulties.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Carlyss works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences. She tailors interventions over time and checks in regularly to adjust the plan as progress and life circumstances evolve.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can take place by video call or phone, or through live chat and text-based messaging - making it easier to fit care into busy schedules, maintain continuity across locations, and access support from licensed professionals when in-person visits are not feasible.