- Client-centered approach
- Cognitive behavioral tools
- Motivational interviewing
About Kristen
Kristen Kakanis is a Tennessee Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 10 years of professional experience. She works with people coping with stress, anxiety, relationship problems, anger, low self-esteem, depression, addictions, trauma, grief, parenting strain, career shifts, and compassion fatigue.
Kristen describes clients as the experts of their own stories. She looks for strengths clients already have and helps them put those strengths to use when challenges arise. Sessions focus on practical steps rather than labels. The tone is direct and collaborative.
Her approach draws from client-centered methods that prioritize the person's perspective. She also uses cognitive behavioral ideas to help a person notice unhelpful thinking and try new behaviors. Motivational interviewing is used when someone is weighing change or feeling stuck.
In session she aims for clear goals and small, achievable steps. Conversations are straightforward and focused on what the client wants to change. Kristen helps people build skills for managing strong feelings such as anger and ongoing stress.
People who want concrete strategies and respectful feedback tend to do well with this style. She supports adults navigating life transitions, work pressure, relationship strain, and urges tied to addictions. Kristen encourages small experiments between sessions to test new ways of coping and communicating.
How her approaches shape online sessions
Kristen commonly uses client-centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy in her work. Client-centered therapy focuses on the person's perspective, listening to what matters most and shaping the work around their goals. Cognitive behavioral therapy looks at patterns of thought and behavior and tests small changes to see what helps reduce distress such as anger or anxiety.She also uses motivational interviewing when someone feels unsure about change. That approach helps people weigh pros and cons and find their own reasons to try something different. Deciding which approach to use is a collaborative process - she will discuss options and adjust methods based on a client's goals and preferences.
Specific session formats are not listed in the provided biography, so confirm current options before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy week, allow a shorter check-in when needed, or remove commuting time. The focus remains on practical skills and steps you can apply between meetings, with the therapist helping tailor those steps to everyday routines.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
10+ years
Listed in
Tennessee
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does she help with?
She works with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger, low self-esteem, depression, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief, parenting strain, career changes, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue.
What is her therapeutic style like?
Sessions emphasize the client's perspective and practical steps. Conversations are collaborative and aim for clear, manageable goals.
How much experience does she have?
She has 10 years of professional social work experience in clinical settings.
What credential does she hold and where is she located?
She is a Tennessee LCSW and practices in Tennessee.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English only.
Does she work with people outside the United States?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How are sessions priced and paid for?
Cost varies by location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with her?
Click the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.