I’m Kristina, the owner of Awaken Counseling and a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 15 years of experience in the mental health space. Growing up with significant challenges and battling my own inner critic, I experienced firsthand the life-changing impact that an experienced therapist can make. Now, I’m committed to offering clients the same beacon of hope that was given to me. It’s my goal to ensure that every interaction, from the very first contact to each session, feels warm, inviting and most importantly, impactful.

One of my areas of specialty is helping individuals learn to manage anxiety. If you’re currently struggling with anxiety, it may feel like it’s blocking you from being fully engaged in your life — but there is a path forward. We can’t always avoid anxiety and fear, but together we can help you discover new ways to respond to these emotions so you can become your bravest self.

Another area close to my heart is supporting individuals dealing with chronic pain and medical problems. Whether it’s chronic pain, trauma-related pain, or the challenges of navigating a difficult medical diagnosis, I get it. I get it on a level that only someone who has been through it can get it. We will work together to find your path towards relief.

Additionally, I have extensive experience working with individuals who are navigating pregnancy and postpartum issues. This unique and transformative time in life can come with its own set of emotional challenges and adjustments. I am here to help you establish a road map to achieving more balance and support during a time that can be pretty darn isolating.

My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassion, authenticity and practicality. We’ll work together to help you navigate life’s challenges, develop resilience and cultivate positive and lasting change. We’ll definitely laugh and occasionally we may cry, but above all, you will feel heard.

If you too are currently living with a harsh inner critic that never seems to be satisfied, know that you’re not alone. I’m here to help you put that voice to rest once and for all and replace it with one that speaks empathy, hope, and kindness so you can thrive.

More about Kristina: 

Kristina grew up in Savannah, Georgia, and moved to Marietta in 2009. She has been a therapist in Marietta for 15 years. She has also been married for 15 years and has two children. She loves doing yoga and Pilates and spending time with her family. Kristina is a partner with Cobb Collaborative and is a member of various professional organizations. She writes various blogs on mental health and has written for REIMAC online magazine.

Kristina, as a counselor, uses a comprehensive and personalized approach to treatment. Drawing from diverse modalities such as Client-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused techniques, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Family Systems Theory, Kristina tailors her counseling to the unique needs of each individual. Through her empathetic and client-focused methods, she creates a safe space for exploration and self-reflection. Krstina's incorporation of cognitive-behavioral strategies aims at empowering clients to overcome challenges and unhelpful thinking styles, while her understanding of family systems acknowledges the interconnectedness of personal well-being and familial dynamics.