Kristina Orlova

Thank you for considering therapy with me as you navigate your anxiety (social anxiety, generalized anxiety, phobia (needles for example), OCD, and depression. (NOTE: I specialize in anxiety disorders and OCD. I do not work with domestic violence, eating disorders, personality disorders).

It is important for you to know that my therapeutic approach is collaborative, direct, and focuses on accountability. This means we’ll work together actively, both in our sessions and through practices you’ll carry into your daily life through the worksheets and what we cover during our video calls. My role is to guide and support you, and I value open communication and a straightforward approach.

If you’re open to this level of active participation and communication, I’m confident we can make significant progress together. However, if you’re not comfortable with direct feedback or consistent engagement outside of sessions, it may affect how effective our therapy can be. Finding the right therapeutic relationship is crucial, so I encourage you to reflect on whether this approach feels right for you. I’m here to help you on this journey, whichever direction it takes.

As a telehealth therapist with a focus on OCD and anxiety disorders, my journey in psychology and mental health has been driven by a deep commitment to understanding and alleviating the complexities of human suffering. My educational background and extensive work experience have uniquely positioned me to excel in this specialized field.

Educational Foundation:
I hold a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies, where my studies concentrated on Integral Counseling and Mindfulness. This program provided me with a comprehensive understanding of various therapeutic modalities, emphasizing a holistic approach to mental health. Additionally, my Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies with a minor in Performing Arts from the University of San Francisco has enriched my perspective on human interaction and communication.

Professional Experience:
My career in mental health spans over a decade, during which I have honed my skills in various capacities. Notably, at KOR Results and The Gateway Institute, I have specialized as an OCD and Anxiety Specialist, facilitating Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) sessions, individual therapy, and group therapies. My role in these organizations has enabled me to develop a deep understanding of OCD and anxiety disorders, equipping me with the tools to effectively manage and treat these conditions.

In addition to my specialization, I have extensive experience in diverse settings, including the Shanti Margot Murphy Women’s Cancer Program, Seneca Family of Agencies, California Pacific Medical Center, and San Francisco Suicide Prevention. These roles have provided me with a broad spectrum of experience in mental health, from being a care navigator and implementing UCSF oncology grant programs to supervising various mental health initiatives and counseling programs.

Philosophy and Approach to Therapy:
My therapy philosophy is anchored in the belief that each individual has the intrinsic capacity for healing and growth. I integrate evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), including Inference-based CBT, Exposure Response Prevention (and I use aspects from Acceptance Commitment Therapy with ERP), and a mindfulness-based approach. This integration allows for a comprehensive treatment plan that is tailored to the unique needs of each client.

Continued professional development is a cornerstone of my practice. I have completed advanced training in areas like CBT for OCD (IOCDF BTTI), The Artful Science of Treating OCD by Dr. Grayson, and various other courses focusing on OCD, GAD, BDD, depression, PTSD, and co-occurring disorders. These certifications reflect my commitment to staying abreast of the latest research and developments in mental health care.

With a blend of academic knowledge, practical experience, and a philosophy centered on compassionate, proactive, client-focused care, I am dedicated to providing effective, evidence-based telehealth services to individuals struggling with OCD and anxiety. My goal is to create a therapeutic environment that fosters resilience, self-awareness, and positive change, enabling clients to lead fulfilling lives.