Kristen Gurdak

Hello! My name is Kristen and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of experience providing therapy services. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT; Level 3) but integrate other clinical approaches in my practice. I have worked in various clinical settings including: community mental health programs, mental health outpatient services, inpatient rehabilitation, and in private clinical practice. Primarily I treat, but I am not limited to, personality disorders, mood disorders, and substance-related disorders. I utilize a client-centered approach to therapy consisting of the following clinical approaches: – Dialectical Behavior Therapy – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Psychodynamic Therapy – And other approaches like motivational interviewing and solution-focused as needed. Academically, I received my undergraduate degree from Florida Atlantic University and my Master’s degree in Social Work from Barry University in Miami, Florida. Currently I am a Social Work Ph.D. Candidate at New York University specializing in mental health stigma and community integration for those with serious mental illnesses. Concurrently, I am an adjunct lecturer at NYU Silver School of Social Work. My approach to therapy is tailored to your unique needs. We will work together to identify which therapeutic approach will be most helpful and effective for you. With the appropriate customized therapeutic approach, we will be able to manage immediate stressors, overcome challenges, improve the quality of your relationships, and develop personal growth by exploring the source of specific behaviors and emotional patterns. Seeking therapy is not an easy decision but it is a courageous one. You have already done the hardest part and I commend you for your strength. I would be honored to accompany you on your journey to a more fulfilling life.