Kristen Paliwoda, M.C.
Registered Psychologist
Adults, Adolescents
“
Every person on this earth is full of great possibilities that can be realized through imagination, effort, and perseverance.
”
Philosophy and Approach
Kristen’s therapeutic philosophy centers on a person-centered approach that prioritizes individual empowerment and growth. She recognizes the uniqueness of each client and tailors her therapeutic methods to meet their specific needs, understanding that no single approach fits all. Drawing from a range of evidence-based techniques, Kristen adapts her interventions to best support each client’s healing journey. Her collaborative style emphasizes the therapeutic relationship as a foundation for change, honoring clients’ strengths, resilience, and coping abilities. This supportive environment encourages clients to actively engage in their own recovery and personal development.
Areas of Expertise
Kristen Paliwoda is committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space where clients feel heard and supported. She values the courage it takes to seek help and listens deeply to each individual’s life experience. Kristen empowers clients to achieve their goals by fostering self-awareness, emotional regulation, and wellbeing, while equipping them with practical coping skills to manage life’s stressors.
Her clinical expertise covers trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and adjustment issues. Kristen has significant experience supporting individuals recovering from motor vehicle accidents (MVA). She understands the complex physical, emotional, and psychological impact these accidents can have and provides specialized interventions tailored to address trauma, pain management, and adjustment challenges related to MVA recovery. In addition, Kristen Paliwoda has received advanced training in perinatal mental health, allowing her to support women and families through the unique emotional challenges associated with pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. She works with clients experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, difficulties adjusting to parenting, and birth trauma. Kristen’s expertise in this area includes helping clients build resilience, cope with changes, and navigate the emotional complexities of the perinatal journey of parenthood.
Creating Meaningful Change
Passionate about working with both adults and adolescents, Kristen helps clients navigate anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, depression, and other challenges through evidence-based therapeutic practices. As a certified EMDR therapist, she offers trauma-focused treatment, complemented by approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused therapy (SFT), and narrative therapy. She fosters a safe and supportive space where clients can freely explore their emotions and experiences. By integrating multiple modalities, Kristen customizes her treatment to each client’s unique needs, promoting resilience, growth, and healing.
Education and Credentials
Kristen Paliwoda holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Alberta and a Master of Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She is a Registered Psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists and the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta. Additionally, Kristen completed the Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Certificate program, enhancing her ability to support individuals experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety challenges, parenting adjustment issues, and birth trauma. She is also trained and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, enabling her to provide specialized trauma treatment.
Presenting Concerns
Chronic Pain
Depression
Grief and Loss
Life Transitions and Adjustment Difficulties
Perfectionism and Self-Critical Thinking
Perinatal Anxiety
Perinatal Mood Disorders and Birth Trauma
Parenting Adjustment and Support
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), including MVA trauma
Relationship Issues
Self-Esteem and Identity Issues
Stress Management and Emotional Regulation
Women’s Mental Health Challenges related to Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Postpartum
Work-Related Stress and Burnout
Approaches
Population
Adults (18+)
Adolescents (12+)
First Responders
Motor Vehicle Accidents
If you’re seeking a therapist who will walk alongside you on your journey, Kristen at Journey Psychology is here to support you with empathy, understanding, and expertise.
Book Your Appointment Today!
Take the first step towards a healthier, happier you. Contact us today for complimentary 15 minute consultation to discuss your needs and how we can help.