About Kristen
I’m Kristen Pappacena, LICSW
A warm, grounded, and collaborative approach to psychotherapy for life transitions, anxiety, depression, women’s mental health, pregnancy, and parenting.
My work is grounded in acceptance and commitment therapy and interpersonal psychotherapy and influenced by internal family systems, attachment theory, and polyvagal-informed approaches.
I hold two licenses to practice psychotherapy in Vermont: Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have specialized training in working with parents before, during, and after pregnancy.
Before starting a private practice I worked in community-based mental health and hospital settings with a focus on interpersonal trauma, substance use, and the integration of medical and mental health care.
When not in session I enjoy hiking in the Green Mountains and learning about native plants.
My Perspective
Head and heart both matter.
I believe we are at our best when all aspects of our experience are honored, even ones that seem contradictory, such as the wisdom of the head and the wisdom of the heart.
Therapy with me is intended to be a place where you can slow down, make sense of what feels heavy, and move toward a fuller life with more clarity and self-compassion.
Training & Care
Acceptance and commitment therapy
Interpersonal psychotherapy
Internal family systems informed
Attachment-informed care
Polyvagal-informed approaches