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About Kirsten

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Reach Out For An Appointment

Phone & Text Apt Line: 320-434-1356

Email: kirsten@restorationcandc.com

Call Kirsten at 320-434-1356 for a free 15 minute consultation!

Who Kirsten Serves

Children 12 and Up, Adolescents, Adult Individuals, Couples, and Families

Specialties 

Adolescent formation process, young adult growth and development, spirituality, anxiety, relationship and family issues. Specifically love working with women, mothers, and teen and young adult males. I work well with highly sensitive people, unique souls, and individuals who have struggled starting counseling or coaching in the past.

Education

MA, Marriage and Family Therapy, Bethel Seminary, Arden Hills, MN

BA, University of Minnesota Duluth, Duluth, MN

Majors: Psychology, Communications, Women's Studies

Bio

As a therapist, I want to walk with clients through the journey of LIFE — helping them overcome hurdles and the waves that just come and go throughout the years. Together, I believe we can find solutions and new ways of viewing life’s challenges, and ways to find day to day JOY!

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I am interested in doing very practical, effective, yet caring work. I believe change requires hard work. I will give direct feedback, ideas, resources and assignments but, ultimately, you are responsible for writing the story of your life. I value honesty and authenticity in the therapeutic process; while that process may not be easy, the rewards will certainly be worthwhile. I believe in finding laughter, joy, and new meaning in life through this therapeutic journey.

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My clinical approach reflects a commitment to working from a “family-systems” perspective. I believe issues are best resolved by considering your significant relationships, experiences, and family, as well as others involved with your situation. I want to help you use your strengths to develop a new, stronger sense of self and to make changes in your life. My primary goal in therapy is to restore HOPE.

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I am the mom of 4, I have children ages 14-8, one set of twins, three boys, and a girl. I have children in all K-12 schools: elementary, middle, and high school. I understand the challenges in parenting and am active in the moms community and multiples community.  I appreciate that marriage is HARD work, but a healthy family can be a huge blessing in life.  I enjoy being a sports and dance mom.   I love music and encouraging all people to love and experience music and the arts.  I enjoy photography, coffee dates, going up north, my puppy Gracie, and reading a good book.  

Testimonials

"If Kirsten weren’t already my colleague and friend, she would be the perfect therapist for me! Her uncanny ability to simultaneously provide kind and compassionate care as well as firmly holding space for change and growth is unique and provides positive results. Kirsten’s skill and empathy as a fellow Highly Sensitive Person is proven essential, especially for those teenagers and adult males who find it challenging to express emotions. Kirsten also provides a well-balanced mix of validation, boundaries, and accountability and I highly recommend her as a therapist."

- Brian Zirngible, LMFT; Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist

Born with compassion that has bloomed enormously in the lifetime I have know her, Kirsten's soul shines brightly through her. I have been blessed beyond measure to have her as one of my people for 25 + years. Those who are lucky enough to get on her case load will be able to open up and see the good and not so good that has been laid at their feet in a completely different  light.

- Julie - CLOSE Personal Friend

"I've seen Kirsten for the last 10 years and she's helped me tremendously.  I am constantly recommending her to friends and family.  She's truly helped me come a long way."  

- Former client of Kirsten's 

"I’ve worked with Kirsten for the past few years at a local high school that uses a trauma informed care approach and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) model. She has made many powerful connections with students and families throughout those two years as a therapist. The student population she works with face many challenges on a daily basis and Kirsten was one of their go-to people that could help de-escalate, regulate, and connect with the students. I have witnessed firsthand how reliable, caring, and present she is through family meetings we hold at the school. Kirsten is wonderful to work with!"

- Ashley Evans, Special Education Director

"Talking with Kirsten is one of my favorite things to do. She is a wonderful listener, affirming and attentive, and I always feel I am talking to someone who genuinely cares about me. She shares thoughtful insight and advice that is tailored to my needs, considering me as a whole person, and not just a group of symptoms or issues. I am blessed with her friendship, and I wish everyone had a confidant like Kirsten."

- Mary, Personal Friend  

"My daughter and I have worked with Kirsten for a few years. She is such a down to earth person. Amazing person!  I refer many people to her and she always is so approachable and real with all the teens and families she works with!"

- Diana, co-worker 

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