Kristen Patryna, LPC

Kristen Patryna is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who brings a collaborative, skills-focused approach to work with teens and adults. She has clinical experience across individual and group settings and prioritizes building an equitable therapeutic relationship in which clients feel heard and respected. Kristen blends validation with practical problem solving and focuses on teaching skills that clients can use between sessions to support lasting change.

Her practice draws on client-centered methods alongside Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). She uses strategies such as emotion regulation, mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness to address a range of concerns and to help clients manage symptoms in everyday life. Kristen has particular interest and experience treating anxiety and related symptoms, and she tailors interventions to fit each person’s strengths and goals.

Kristen encourages those reaching out for support and approaches therapy as a partnership aimed at understanding the client’s experience and creating practical steps forward. She looks forward to learning about each person she works with and helping them develop tools for coping with life’s challenges.

Therapeutic approaches adapted for online care

Kristen uses client-centered therapy to create a respectful, collaborative space where the client’s perspective guides the work - this approach emphasizes empathy, active listening, and supporting each person to identify their own goals and strengths. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to identify and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns; it is practical and skill-oriented, often used for anxiety, depression, and mood-related concerns. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provides tools for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness, which can be especially helpful for intense emotions, impulsivity, and relationship challenges.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Kristen works collaboratively with clients to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences, and adjusts strategies as progress is made. Clients can expect a tailored plan that combines validation, skill-building, and problem solving.

Online therapy with Kristen is offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, providing flexibility to meet clients where they are. These options support consistent care around work, school, or family commitments and make it easier to access licensed professionals from different locations.