My name is Kristin Mendelsohn Troy and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Sherman Oaks, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I received my Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University and conducted post-graduate work at the University of Massachusetts Lowell in Behavior Intervention. I work with adults, teens, and school-age children. I specialize in assisting with anxiety, stress, trauma, families with members with developmental differences, and individuals going through difficult life transitions.
My approach
My approach to therapy is eclectic in order to create a treatment plan that is unique and tailored to each client's needs. Eclectic therapy is multifaceted and allows for a well round approach. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavior Therapy, Attachment-based Therapy, and Mindfulness-based Therapy.
My focus
I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for adults, young adults, teens, and school-aged children who may be dealing with anxiety, stress, and difficulty due to life transitions and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more accepting outlook on life. I also have experience providing parent training, working with women and children who have experienced family violence, and members of families who have children or siblings with developmental differences.
My communication style
My communication style is calm and I work to practice mindful listening. I tend to have a collaborative communication and therapeutic style. I want my clients to feel comfortable talking with me about anything and to be engaged in all areas of the therapeutic process. Sessions tend to be part-directed (learning skills and tools) and part-non-directed (space for you to share).
My journey to mental healthcare
What you can expect from our first session is for us to spend time getting to know each other including you asking me any questions you may have, talking about what has been going on for you recently and me asking questions to better understand some of why you may be feeling that way including questions about your family & childhood. The first session is about us building an initial connection and helping me get an idea of where we should begin our work together. Each person is different and I like to get to know you before we decide what will be the best approach for you.
My goals for you
I decided to become a therapist as I truly believe that in order to have a more peaceful world and for each of us to have healthier relationships, we need to find inner peace within ourselves. I enjoy seeing individuals learn new skills and apply them in their lives. Being less reactive and more present helps us live our lives more fully and with more joy as well as improve our relationships.
My first session with you
My approach to goal setting with clients is to work together to define what you want to accomplish in our time together. This often starts by building rapport and trust, getting comfortable with what it means to be in therapy, and acquiring new skills. We will then set objective goals and work together to track your progress. If at any time we believe goals need revision we will discuss.