Hello, I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I am licensed in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts. I graduated with my MSW from University of New Hampshire in 2018. I have extensive social work experience in hospitals, government and non profit settings, and transitioned into private practice work three years ago.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
I typically rely heavily on the client's comfort level in what they are willing to share. I don't push as establishing a rapport of trust and connection isn't something to be rushed. I am a very curious person and often use the initial session to understand the perspective of the client and the significance of what they are sharing. I have a great deal of respect for those that approach therapy with an open mind and heart, and I respond to this courage with a great deal of awareness, compassion and space.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I am compassionate, curious and open to feedback. I believe strongly in the client playing an active and pivotal role in the direction of treatment, and will frequently check in to ensure we are on the most meaningful track.
About Kristen LaRue
Appointments
Virtual
My treatment methods
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness, or the act of paying attention moment by moment, affords many of us with the ability to harness the tools already within us to address everything from moods to chronic pain symptoms. In my practice I assist clients with nurturing and developing a mindfulness experience that is meaningful to them and fits within their life. Breath work, meditation, sensory awareness and somatic experiences are just a few practices that can be incorporated into this method.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
ACT is an action oriented approach, that is also insight oriented. Through this work and within the sessions we will explore how self talk has created pathways that often trap you into negative cycles or thinking patterns. Exercises completed both within and outside the sessions will be incorporated to support and evaluate progress.
Compassion Focused
It's fair to state that we cannot solve issues outside of ourselves until we manage issues within. Self compassion, although seemingly simplistic, is often the most challenging method, however the rewards are far reaching and life changing. This method allows for a raw and dramatic approach to what many of us fear most, sitting with ourselves, without distraction, and loving ourselves no matter where we are at.
Narrative
If you were the writer of your story, what would be different? Where would you begin? Which chapter would be a struggle to read out loud? There is power and autonomy in telling of our stories. As a therapist I hold and provide a supportive and safe space in which you can share your story. This space often allows for a "rewriting" of the narrative. The negative beliefs and shaming stories that we have repeated to ourselves for year/decades/beyond are "retold" or "re-experienced" in a manner that is reflective and aligned with our authentic selves.
