Kristen Wells, LMHC

Kristen Wells, MA, CAGS, LMHC, completed a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Counseling Psychology at Anna Maria College. The MA indicates graduate training in counseling and the CAGS denotes additional advanced post-master's study; LMHC stands for Licensed Mental Health Counselor, reflecting licensure to practice. She began her career working as a social worker with children and families and has since focused her practice on adult therapy for more than a decade.

Her clinical work covers substance use and addiction, anger, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, trauma, legal issues, co-parenting and relationship challenges, codependency, and self-esteem concerns. Kristen provides individual therapy as well as family and couples counseling, and she has led anger management and relapse prevention groups. She has particular experience supporting people with ADHD/ADD, intermittent explosive disorder, social phobia, and panic disorders.

Kristen has worked extensively with people dealing with alcohol or drug use, including participation as the therapist in a program that reported a 78% success rate using the Sinclair Method. She incorporates motivational interviewing when addressing substance use disorders and supports clients in developing practical coping skills. She also assists individuals navigating major life changes - such as divorce or separation, custody matters, loss and grief, medical diagnoses, incarceration, relocation, questioning sexual identity, and issues of infidelity - and welcomes clients who are ready to engage in meaningful personal growth.

Evidence-based techniques and online care

Kristen Wells uses focused therapeutic methods that support measurable progress. Motivational interviewing is a collaborative, person-centered approach that helps clients explore their readiness for change and increase internal motivation - it is commonly used for substance use and other behavior changes. Relapse prevention involves identifying triggers, building coping strategies, and creating a practical plan to manage urges and maintain recovery - it is often delivered in individual or group formats to support sustained progress. Anger management work teaches emotion regulation skills and communication techniques to reduce impulsive reactions and improve relationships.

Choosing the right approach is a shared process. Kristen works with each person to assess needs, goals, and preferences and then tailors interventions so the treatment fits the client rather than forcing a single method.

Online therapy offers practical advantages for many people - appointments by video, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging make it easier to fit care into busy schedules and to connect from different locations. These options increase flexibility and access to licensed professionals and therapists while allowing sessions to focus on meaningful, goal-oriented work.