Kristi L. Van Ess, MS, LPC
Specializing in Children, Adolescents, and Adults navigating Trauma, Anxiety, ADHD, Grief, Parent-Child Relationship Work, and Major Life Transitions
Get started working with Kristi
Kristi is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor with over 24 years of experience in the mental health field. Licensed in the state of Wisconsin, Kristi has spent the last 18 years in local therapy practice, building deep roots and a trusted presence within the community and virtually across the state. Having served as a lead group therapist and worked extensively in both outpatient and in-home settings, she brings a wealth of diverse clinical experience and local insight to her practice.
With a firm belief that every person possesses the innate strength to heal, Kristi provides a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space where clients of all ages can explore their experiences and develop the tools necessary for lasting change.
Areas of Expertise
Trauma & Resilience
Utilizing Brainspotting and mindfulness to help clients process deep-seated experiences and reclaim their sense of self.
Grief & Loss
Supporting individuals and families through the unique and often non-linear process of grieving, providing a compassionate space to honor loss and find a path forward.
ADHD & Executive Functioning
Supporting children, adolescents, and adults in developing personalized strategies for focus, organization, and emotional regulation.
Parent-Child Relationships & Attachment
Working collaboratively with parents and children to repair bonds, improve communication, and create a supportive home environment.
Children & Adolescents
Specialized support for youth navigating anxiety, depression, and developmental transitions using age-appropriate creative modalities like art and play therapy.
Family Dynamics & Divorce Adjustment
Guiding families through the complexities of restructuring, ensuring children feel secure and parents feel equipped during major transitions.
Clinical Approach
Kristi’s therapeutic approach is warm, collaborative, and deeply client-centered. She utilizes a strength-based approach designed to empower those we work with. “Rather than being so problem-focused,” Kristi explains, “we look at what kind of tools you already have in your toolbox that we can use to magnify those strengths.”
Her practice is highly integrative, blending evidence-based methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with Mindfulness and Person-Centered techniques. As a Certified Brainspotting Practitioner, Kristi utilizes this powerful, focused treatment tool to help clients identify, process, and release core neurophysiological sources of emotional and physical pain, especially when traditional talk therapy feels limited.
Kristi also believes in the healing power of humor; she often uses a lighthearted touch to build rapport, reduce the “clinical” feel of therapy, and help clients find moments of joy even during heavy transitions. Kristi is particularly passionate about expressive and alternative healing practices; her master’s research focused on Animal-Assisted Therapy. As a devoted advocate for the bond between humans and animals, she brings this passion into her practice—clients will often witness one of her five “fluffballs” participating in sessions, offering a unique layer of comfort and connection to the therapeutic process.
Education & Credentials
- Certified Brainspotting Practitioner
- Master of Science in Mental Health and Child & Adolescent Counseling
University of Wisconsin-Stout - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire - Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
State of Wisconsin
“I believe the bravest thing a person can do is show up for themselves. My role is to walk alongside you on that journey with warmth, insight, and a healthy dose of humor to uncover a more authentic, fulfilling life.”
Personal Philosophy & Interests
Outside of her clinical work, Kristi is happiest when she is outside, whether she is running or practicing yoga. She also enjoys the creativity and focus of cooking for her family. Kristi is a mom of two children and cherishes spending quality time with her husband and kids, especially while relaxing with her cats and making memories at the family cottage in Door County.