ABOUT ME

Charissa Kim Allen, LMFT

While I collaborate with each client to determine their unique goals for treatment, I am anchored in this umbrella aim of therapy, quoted by Jonathan Shedler, PhD:

“To loosen the bonds of past experiences to create new life possibilities.”

While the journey of therapy can feel vulnerable and unpredictable, I believe an effective therapeutic process to be worthwhile in its reliable, long-term impact. I witness clients become more confident, integrated, and generous from the introspective and connecting work of therapy.

Through safe breakdown, we rebuild on a sturdy foundation. By bravely traversing our internal worlds, we integrate with all parts of ourselves. In receiving a container of safe attachment, we build capacity to connect abundantly with others.

As a licensed MFT, I am passionate about seeing individuals, couples, and families restore a fundamental sense of identity and safety, cultivate healthy relationships, and gain tools for lasting change and influence. I desire to come alongside each client in their journey with a posture of attunement, acceptance, pragmatism, truthfulness, partnership, and sensitivity to context.

Areas of interest:
My areas of interest include working with clients who are experiencing identity issues, cultural issues, life transitions, relational struggles, spiritual issues, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and family conflict. My education is based in family systems and I bring experience supporting couples in crisis as well as parent-adolescent relationships.

Therapeutic Approach:
With a focus on attachment, mindfulness, and emotional regulation, my therapeutic approach is anchored in Restoration Therapy, in which I am a Level 2 trained Consultant. My work with clients is also collaborative, dynamic, and depth-focused, incorporating both Internal Family Systems & Psychodynamic frameworks.

Values and Focuses:

I value the intersection of mental health, faith, and social justice. In my past vocational work, I have empowered young adults of diverse ethnic, cultural, spiritual, and regional backgrounds. My own upbringing and experience has also shaped a heart for pastors/ministry staff, families in ministry, and pastor’s kids. Beyond providing psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families, I run psychoeducative support groups and workshops for clergy families and spiritual leaders.

Credentials