Welcome to my practice
Hello, and welcome! My name is Kristen Hornung (please call me Kristen; pronouns are she/hers or just my name). I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor #2071 in California, offering both in-person therapy in Encinitas, California, and telehealth therapy across California. I work with deep-thinking, over-functioning individuals who often feel anxious, stuck, or disconnected despite their success on the surface.
My Approach
If you’re here, you might be navigating complex emotions, attachment wounds, or unresolved trauma. Perhaps you excel in your career or in school yet struggle with anxiety, overthinking, or feeling like you’re never doing enough. Therapy with me is a collaborative process. I value setting clear goals together, regularly revisiting them, and creating a space where you feel heard and supported.
I integrate evidence-based practices like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with insights from attachment theory and Depth Psychology to help you:
- Process and heal from past trauma.
- Explore and address unconscious patterns influencing your relationships and emotions.
- Build new coping skills for managing anxiety and perfectionism.
- Strengthen relationships and develop healthier attachment dynamics.
I also use practical tools from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you manage stress, regulate emotions, and improve communication. Screenings and assessments may be used as needed to help inform our work together.
I am committed to respecting the diversity of my clients and providing an affirming, nonjudgmental space for people of all backgrounds. I work with clients of various racial, cultural, and religious identities and I welcome people in queer, polyamorous, and other nontraditional relationship structures. My approach is inclusive, trauma-informed, and I am always open to feedback to ensure you feel safe and respected.
My Professional Background
Since 2011, I’ve worked with adolescents, adults, and families in various settings, including schools, outpatient mental health clinics, and private practice. My clients often have experiences like:
- Trauma, including childhood abuse, neglect, or adoption.
- Attachment wounds or difficulties forming secure, healthy relationships.
- Anxiety, perfectionism, or overthinking.
- Pressure to meet high expectations at work or in personal life.
- Exploring gender identity, sexual orientation, or other aspects of identity.
From 2017 to 2021, I also served as a Clinical Supervisor, training and supporting pre-licensed therapists in community mental health clinics as they developed their skills.
Education and Credentials
My academic and professional journey includes:
- B.A. in Chemistry (Brown University, 2008).
- M.A. in Counseling, Specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (University of San Diego, 2012).
- Ph.D. in Depth Psychology, Emphasis in Depth Psychotherapy (Pacifica Graduate Institute, 2018).
- EMDR Certified Therapist™ (EMDRIA): Certified in an evidence-based approach for trauma.
- National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC).
- Approved Clinical Supervisor (CCE).
A Little More About Me
I became a therapist because of my own journey of recovery, which taught me the value of therapy, acceptance, and finding purpose. I identify as queer, and when I’m not working or parenting my two children, I enjoy reading, walking, writing, or learning new things. I believe in finding joy in small, meaningful moments, like watching the moon rise or connecting with a friend.
Learn More
You can explore my services and approach in more detail on my Mental Health Therapy Services homepage.
Reach out today
If you’d like to see if we’re a good fit, I offer a free 15–30 minute consultation via phone or video. Contact me by phone at (619)202-1481 or by email at kristen@kristenhornung.com
