About Me
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Hi I'm Kristin,
I graduated from the University of South Carolina in December of 2012 with Bachelor of Art in Psychology and Bachelor of Fine Arts for Studio Art.
With my first child still in diapers, I started my graduate program with the School of Social Work at the University of South Carolina. I Graduated in May of 2016 with my Masters in Social Work with Honors. While there, I earned a separate Graduate Certificate in Drug and Addiction Studies.
As part the graduate program with USC, we are expected to complete two field experiences. I was fortunate to be selected for internships involving my interests and passions. My first year was with Morris Village Alcohol and Drug Addiction Treatment Center in Columbia (part of SC Department of Mental Health-SCDMH), where I worked with women entering inpatient treatment for Substance Use Disorders and Co-morbid Mental Health diagnoses. The following and last year of my MSW Program, I worked with William S. Hall Psychiatric Institute with the Adolescent Recovery Program (ARP), another inpatient treatment addressing dual-diagnosis of substance use disorders and mental health diagnoses with adolescents (both male and female).
I was able to take my LMSW exam in March of 2016 due to good academic standing and upon graduation from USC was licensed with the state of SC.
Following my graduation from USC, I was hired-on by SCDMH in August of 2016 continuing with William S. Hall Psychiatric Institute where I stayed until approximately November of 2017, when I had my second child and was in need of a shift. In November of 2017, I returned to where my journey started with Morris Village, where I worked on the Women's Team until May of 2023.
While employed with Morris Village, I completed the requirements for my AADC (Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor) Certification, which involved passing a state test, oral exam, 100 hours of supervision, approximately 300 hours of training in the the field, and 4,000 Hours (or two years full-time) work requirements in the field of addiction.
In an effort to give back to my SW program, I had the opportunity to teach (and learn from) students in the field while working at SCDMH. I was able to offer students an opportunity to be inspired as I was in my MSW program.
In October of 2021 I earned my LISW-CP (Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice), which involves at least 3,000 clinical hours and 100 direct contact supervision hours. I put my independent license to work by May of 2022 with Bright Side Counseling LLC, where I saw clients in the evenings.
I am grateful for my time with both the SC Department of Mental Health and Bright Side Counseling, LLC as they supported me as I learned and gained experience in the field. I was able to shift to my own private practice, Therapy with Kristin, LLC, as of November of 2023.
I am trained in EMDR Therapy, an evidence-based modality to address trauma. This involves 40+ hours of training and 10 hours of follow-up consultation. I am also in the process of certification in EMDR, which involves further trainings and consultation hours.
I love to learn and grow in this field. It is ever-evolving and I miss being a student at times! I like to be myself in sessions- non-judgmental, loving, and nurturing. I enjoy all things funny, quirky, and anything a bit spooky. I am a good listener and patient (my kids have taught me that). I love what I do and believe that this work chose me. I have a passion for art and music and strongly believe in the healing nature of our creative spirit, which given the chance will happily incorporate into therapy sessions.
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