Krista Behrens

Many of my clients arrive in therapy feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, mood swings, memory lapses, or a sense of losing time. Some wonder about experiences that feel like psychosis, borderline traits, or bipolar — while others are exploring ADHD or autistic traits and questioning whether they may be neurodivergent. They’ve often been given labels that didn’t quite fit or experienced therapy that felt impersonal or one-size-fits-all. They’re looking for something more thoughtful, attuned, and deeply understanding — a place where they can finally make sense of what’s really going on inside. I specialize in Complex Trauma and Dissociation, with advanced training in both. I work within Judith Herman’s established three-phase model of complex trauma treatment (from her 1992 book Trauma and Recovery): safety and stabilization, remembrance and mourning, and reconnection. I place strong emphasis on Phase I — safety and stabilization — before moving into deeper work. This foundational step is one many clients have missed in previous therapy. Ego State Therapy (EST) is a central method I use within this framework. What is Ego State Therapy? Developed by psychologists John and Helen Watkins in the 1970s and 1980s, Ego State Therapy is a well-established, highly individualized approach grounded in psychodynamic theory, hypnosis, and the understanding of dissociation as a natural protective response. It has been used for decades with trauma survivors and is especially effective for working with complex trauma and dissociation. EST recognizes that each person has their own unique internal system of “parts” (called ego states) that hold different feelings, memories, behaviors, and perspectives. We work directly and respectfully with your personal system exactly as it shows up — gently bringing parts into awareness, helping them feel safe, and supporting healthier communication between them. My Clinical Approach I carefully weave Ego State Therapy principles into your care while always prioritizing proper pacing and respect for your nervous system. As the field often says, “Slow is Fast” — thoughtful, well-paced work creates the strongest and most lasting results. Over the years, many clients have told me that Ego State Therapy has been highly effective in their healing — and many cannot imagine their journey without it. Clients who had tried other therapies often say they only realized what had been missing once they experienced EST. What to Expect in Sessions We work together at a pace that feels safe for you. I will help you: Identify and understand your unique ego states Create safety and communication between parts Heal wounded or burdened parts Build cooperation and alignment so that decision-making and daily functioning become easier Sessions are collaborative, deeply respectful of every part of you, and always trauma-informed. Healing is deeply personal, and so is the path we create together. I believe therapy should be as unique as the person seeking it. That’s why I offer highly customized, collaborative treatment that evolves with your needs. If something here resonates with you, I warmly invite you to reach out. I’m here to support your entire internal system with care and respect.