Kiersten Papst, Associate Therapist

Hello! My name is Kiersten Papst and I am an associate marriage and family therapist who is passionate about building collaborative connections and creating a safe space for healing and self-discovery. I chose to pursue therapy through witnessing its impact in my own life, and am honored to help individuals in this space. I understand that life can be challenging, and I am committed to walking alongside others as they navigate their unique journey. 

I attended Biola University for my bachelor’s degree in psychology and minor in biblical studies, and earned my Master of Arts in marriage and family therapy from Hope International University. My approach to therapy values the whole individual, reflecting on their past and how it may influence certain outlooks while also considering their desires for the future, and uncovering their authentic self. I utilize a blend of techinques depending on the individual’s needs such as Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Humanistic Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Relationships are vital for one’s overall well-being and I desire to help improve these bonds using tools from the Gottman Method, Attachment Theory, and Prepare/Enrich assessments for premarital couples. I also have a passion to help those who have experienced trauma and PTSD process these events utilizing Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). 

In my free time, I enjoy spending quality time with friends and family, attending a heated fitness class, or as a South Orange County native, lounging at the beach. I am committed to this work and appreciate the opportunity to encourage others in reaching their goals.

Kiersten is supervised by Lyssa Kerrigan LPCC #4626.