Kristen Ackerman (She/Her/Hers)

I provide support for teens facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, peer pressure, and academic stress. My therapy offers personalized strategies to manage emotions, build resilience, and enhance overall well-being, tailored to each teen’s unique needs. Specializing in issues like social dynamics, self-esteem, stress, and identity exploration, I work collaboratively with teenagers to create a supportive environment that empowers them to overcome obstacles.

Kristen works with adolescent and young adults on issues of peer pressure, identity, self image, self worth, transitions, and work/ school stressors.

Specializing in anxiety therapy in San Diego, I help you manage and overcome anxiety with evidence-based interventions like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness. Tailored treatment plans & practical strategies aim to reduce anxiety, build coping skills, and improve mental well-being. Whether you're facing general anxiety, stressful life events, relational or social anxiety, or academic/work pressure, I provide support to achieve lasting relief and a balanced life.

Whether life transitions are anticipated or not, they can be challenging to navigate. Kristen has experience supporting individuals moving; leaving, entering or completing school; career changes; adjusting to a new illness (medical/psychiatric); rites of passage (entering puberty, adulthood, menopause); and family dynamics. Kristen supports clients in decreasing stress, resistance, avoidance, and emotional responses that may arise during a transitional period.

I provide compassionate support for managing & coping with health challenges, focusing on inflammatory bowel disease. With experience in addressing the emotional aspects of chronic conditions, I use evidence-based techniques to offer relief, enhance coping skills, and improve your overall quality of life. Whether you're facing chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, or other long-term health issues, I collaborate with you to develop strategies for symptom management & emotional resilience.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach I often use to help clients overcome anxiety, depression, stress, & more. With extensive experience in CBT, I guide individuals in identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that cause emotional distress. Using practical tools, I help clients develop healthier ways of thinking, build coping skills, & enhance problem-solving abilities. My approach empowers you to make lasting positive changes.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is an effective approach I use to help folks manage overwhelming emotions, improve relationships, and build distress tolerance. I guide clients through mindfulness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness strategies. DBT empowers individuals to create balance, reduce impulsivity, and navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience. Contact me today to learn how DBT can support your mental health journey.

I use Mindfulness-Based Therapy to support individuals managing chronic illness, stress, anxiety, and depression by cultivating present-moment awareness. With extensive experience in mindfulness techniques, I guide clients to manage difficult emotions, improve focus, and reduce emotional distress. This approach fosters emotional balance, self-compassion, and enhances overall quality of life. Contact me today to discover how mindfulness can transform your health journey.