Kristen Shepherd , LMSW

Kristen Shepherd is a licensed social worker who brings 15 years of professional experience to her work with individuals and couples. A 2010 graduate of the University of Michigan School of Social Work, she holds an LMSW, which stands for Licensed Master Social Worker. Early in her career she spent a decade serving students in high-needs school settings, a period that shaped her practical skills and commitment to accessible care.

Her current practice centers on building strong therapeutic relationships with clients of all ages and backgrounds. She finds particular reward in couples work, helping partners improve communication, deepen intimacy, and rediscover enjoyment in their relationships. Kristen tailors her approach to meet each person where they are, combining evidence-informed techniques to address stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, addictions, mood disorders, relationship and family concerns, and other life challenges.

Kristen provides trauma-focused care that helps clients identify psychological wounds that may be limiting growth and wellbeing. Emphasizing collaboration and trust, she works with clients to set goals and develop practical strategies for change. Based in Michigan, Kristen is committed to supporting people as they navigate difficult transitions and work toward healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Approaches to Online Therapy and How They Help

Kristen Shepherd draws from Attachment-Based Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to guide online work. Attachment-Based Therapy examines patterns formed in early relationships and helps clients understand how those patterns affect current connections and coping. It is useful for clients dealing with abandonment, attachment issues, and relationship challenges.

Emotionally-Focused Therapy focuses on identifying and reshaping emotional responses within relationships, often helping couples improve communication, deepen intimacy, and resolve recurring conflicts. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) offers practical strategies to identify unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and replace them with skills that reduce anxiety, manage mood, and support healthier routines.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Kristen Shepherd collaborates with clients to assess needs, goals, and preferences and to select or adapt methods that fit each person's situation. This collaborative process helps ensure treatment feels relevant and workable.

Online therapy with Kristen can take place via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier for people in varied locations or life circumstances to access consistent, ongoing support from licensed professionals and therapists.