Kristen Portney

Pronouns

she/her

Location

Virtual

Education/Certification

M.A., Integral Counseling Psychology

Treating Trauma and Addiction with the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model Certificate Program

Focusing Proficiency Certificate

Certified Abortion Doula

Certified Birth Doula

Grief, anxiety, trauma, major life transitions, self-trust and self-compassion, relationship conflict, pregnancy loss; abortion, miscarriage, infertility.

what areas do you focus on within the reproductive health space?

I offer therapy to individuals and couples who are navigating the dynamic impact of pregnancy loss on themselves and/or their relationship. Pregnancy loss is so common and is an inclusive term. I work with people who have experienced one or more abortions and/or miscarriages as well as women who are having a challenging time conceiving and may be considering alternative options, including but not limited to IVF, for conception. Unfortunately, grief surrounding pregnancy loss and fertility is not widely acknowledged in our culture which can create more isolation, shame, and guilt. This loss is so tender and no one should have to face these moments in life alone.

what’s it like working with you?

I strive to create a safe and nurturing place where people can be with their loss, their disappointments, their successes, the pain, and the joy. In my work with clients, I use a clear and compassionate style of communicating and relating. Through building trust with clients, I help guide them through the anxiety of uncertainty by utilizing somatic techniques rooted in neuroscience and eastern philosophies. I’ve been described as nonjudgmental, sincere, grounded, and warm. I value the tears, the laughter, the silence, and the uproar in equal measure.

how do you approach therapy?

It’s important to guide people towards consistent practices, tailored to them, that will help them live alongside their painful experience while simultaneously holding themselves in trust and with compassion. Learning how to regulate the nervous system is really key because it’s from a grounded place where people can make big decisions which align with their value system. When people feel connected and safe, their relationships flourish and they invite compassion and forgiveness into their lives, in a way that’s long lasting. I think it’s from this place that people can move away from shame, resentment, and fear and go towards a life well balanced in rest, play, connection, and feeling at home in one’s body.

what inspires your work?

A desire to bridge polarities and explore nuance, storytelling, deep listening, my own abortion(s), meaning making, ritual, contemplation on forgiveness, truth, self-love, initiation, self-preservation, dreams, being in-between, fairytales, quiet reflection, and a desire to be of service.

words you live by:

 The dishes are never done.