Therapist Dr. Kristen Martin Photo

Dr. Kristen Martin, LMFT

Relationships Family conflicts Trauma, Abuse Parenting issues Self esteem, Motivation
Video Phone Messaging

About me

Hi there! My name is Kristen Martin, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California.
Before sharing a little about myself, I want to take a moment to acknowledge your courage. It’s not always easy to ask for support. Whether we like it or not, change is inevitable. Sometimes we can control it and sometimes we cannot, but we can always decide whether we want to learn and grow from the changes we experience. By reaching out today, you have chosen to strive for happier, more positive and productive future. What a wonderful thing!

Since I began practicing therapy over fifteen years ago, I have been privileged to support a wide range of people. The individuals, couples and families I’ve worked with have come from all ages and stages of life, including a wide variety of cultural, personal, spiritual and political values. I have treated victims of abuse and trauma, as well as perpetrators and violent offenders. I have worked with affluent professionals, and people living in extreme poverty. I believe in finding opportunities to learn from others rather than judge or avoid them, so I have devoted my career to diversity.

I have a master’s degree in clinical psychology, and I became licensed over 10 years ago. In 2011, I completed my doctorate in education and spent many years managing community mental health programs for children, teens and families. My private practice consists mostly of adults and couples. Over the years I have also developed extensive interest and experience providing therapy to other mental health professionals in need of their own support - We are all human, right?

Many of my clients are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, grief/loss, addiction, low self-esteem, harmful/risky behaviors, and identity issues. Most have experienced trauma at some point in their lives. My area of expertise includes trauma informed care, particularly with those exposed to chronic and/or complex trauma. Many of my clients have experienced abuse and/or neglect, whether this be from their childhood years, or even in their current relationships. Over the last several years, I have worked closely with victims of human trafficking and exploitation, including child refugees seeking asylum.

People typically seek therapy to feel better about themselves, for support through transitional periods, or because they want to overcome challenges that create barriers to happiness and fulfillment. Therapy can be an extremely helpful tool to improve relationships, communicate more effectively, understand emotions and develop more effective coping skills. Just by reviewing this site, you already know there are many therapists to choose from, and they each have different styles, backgrounds, and areas of expertise. The options may feel overwhelming! No matter which therapist or therapy style you choose, it is important that you feel respected, cared for, and supported in being your true self.

The relationship between a therapist and the client is very powerful, and very special. It is my responsibility to act in your best interests. This involves upholding legal and ethical standards, and providing a respectful, safe space to explore vulnerability without judgement. You can count on me for honesty, authenticity and unconditional support. In many ways, the therapeutic relationship is a form of teamwork: We work together to talk things through and problem solve when things aren’t going so well. We work together to create goals and recognize and celebrate successes as they come. We can identify the coping patterns and relationships that are no longer working for you, and we will use your strengths to replace those maladaptive patterns with healthier, more positive and fulfilling forms of coping. I strive to empower my clients to feel strong and worthy of happiness. It truly is possible to create (or re-create!) your life, rather than allowing life events to define you.

Again, congratulations on taking this step to care for yourself. I hope to be a part of your journey!

Professional experience

16yrs in practice
Relationships Family conflicts Trauma, Abuse Parenting issues Self esteem, Motivation

Additional areas of focus: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Coping with life changes, Coaching, Compassion fatigue

Services offered

Video
Phone
Messaging

License information

CA LMFT MFC45550

Reviews

These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Dr. Kristen Martin. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.

Dr. Martin is the most compassionate, insightful therapist I have ever had. She is making a profound difference in my life, making me whole again. In our short period together I've made infinite strides.....and intend on continuing with her, I don't feel alone any more. I feel like I have someone in my corner, someone I can count on to help me whenever I need it. It's been life saving.

Written on Apr 13, 2019 after therapy with Kristen for 4 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, family conflicts, and parenting issues

Very helpful, empathetic and responsive.

Written on Mar 29, 2019 after therapy with Kristen for 2 months on issues concerning addictions, family conflicts, and parenting issues

Dr. Martin is amazing! She has so much optimism and kindness that makes her glow!!! She’s really helping me with things that even I didn’t realize! She is a true genuine person and she deserves the best in life.

Written on Feb 14, 2019 after therapy with Kristen for 2 months

Dr. Martin immediately recognized my issues and was supportive and clear. She listens and makes helpful suggestions, asks direct questions and is respectful of my needs. I feel like I have a real partner in my therapy and made progress immediately.

Written on Dec 11, 2018 after therapy with Kristen for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, and self esteem