Hi, I’m Krista

I have been a licensed professional therapist for over a 15 years and in that time I’ve learned that my heart is working with and supporting mothers in early parenthood and all versions of those who care for others.

Although classically trained in cognitive behavioral approaches, I am lucky enough to be trained in other approaches and blend these elements into my clinical work. This allows me to not only provide you practical tools to alleviate some of the discomfort right away, but also provide you with some reflection and understanding about how these patterns began in your life. This personalized understanding empowers you overall in motherhood — and in other relationships in your life.

I’m trained in the following parenting frameworks and have the following early-parenthood-specific credentials:

• Circle of Security

• Trust-Based Relational Intervention

• Gottman Institute’s Bringing Home Baby curriculum

• Perinatal Mental Health Certification

• Advanced Clinical Training in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health from University of Washington

Why “Amae”

I’m a believer that if you pay attention—-you will receive what you are looking for. In 2020, when I was embarking on establishing my private practice, I was seeking a practice name that meant something deeply to me.

First, It's a blend of my daughters’ names.

But, like anything else nowadays, it helps to google something just to make sure nothing interesting showed up regarding the meaning behind the word “Amae.”

—and, as it turns out, a word with beautiful meaning in Japanese psychology.

Amae refers to the comfort and safety we feel when we can fully trust and rest in someone else’s care. It’s the foundation of secure attachment, mutual support, and emotional intimacy.

In my work, I aim to create that same space:

A place where you can soften, feel held, and be gently supported as you grow.