Kristen Zylka LMSW

As a therapist, I've found a passion for working with older teens and young adults as they navigate these very transformative years. Individuals in this age range face many challenges and are working to become their own person throughout it all. It's important to me to create a space of safety where my clients have choice and support in exploring who they are, how they've learned to keep themselves safe, and how they can move toward the version of themselves they would most like to be. I believe in the importance of curiosity, and will always take a non-judgmental approach as we normalize and understand that all behavior and feelings are functional and protective to some extent. It's in gaining this understanding that we can create a space of acceptance of where we've been, while identifying goals for where we would like to go.

Every client is their own individual with their own stories, and therefore I believe it's important to take an individual approach with each person I meet. I have experience working with multiple mental health-related challenges, including anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, symptoms related to trauma, difficulty with life adjustments, and depression. I've been trained in a variety of modalities, and I often utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as attachment-based and relational strategies.

Population? 

My preference is working with late teens to early adults (16-25)! Although that is flexible, I just really enjoy working with those going through late adolescence and early adulthood, supporting them as they learn more about who they are and are working toward who they would like to become. I also love supporting individuals as they are working to navigate relational challenges, specifically understanding how they function within a variety of relationships.

In-person or online or both? 

Online only.

Where did you study? 

I received my Bachelor of Psychology from Michigan State University, and then received my Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Michigan. I am currently a LMSW in the state of Michigan.  

What's a movie or TV show you never get tired of watching? 

Psych (TV show) and National Treasure! National Treasure is my favorite movie of all time as well as my comfort movie; I watch it at least 3x/year.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about them!

I have a dog, Archie! He’s a 5-year-old Aussidoodle, and is the most fabulous and dramatic dog I’ve ever met. He is happiest when his mom (me) is around and would stay in bed all day if I let him. 

If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be? 

If I could master any skill, it would be directions! I literally never know where I am and would be completely lost (literally) without my Apple Maps.

How do you like to reset after a busy work day or week? 

I like to reset by spending time with my partner, Nigel! We love to watch movies and try new places in our city. I also love cooking, and after a long workday or week something that will always fill my cup is to have a delicious meal! 

What's one hobby you enjoy outside of work? 

I would say cooking is a hobby of mine! I mainly stick to the same rotation of recipes but will also try cooking new things when I have the time and space to do so. I also love creativity, whether it be painting, making bracelets, completing random crafts I find!