Find a therapist in Texas — covered by insurance

Hi! I’m Vanessa! I’m a wife, Mom and entrepreneur. I’m also a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry and women’s mental health. I run a niche mental health clinic called Kavah Wellness Psychiatry. I hold a bachelors degree, two masters degree and a doctor of nursing practice degree. I have almost a decade of experience in the mental health sector. I love everything mental health!

I am a native Texan, auntie, ice cream-loving, roller skating, retired professional athlete who also happens to be a Therapist. My background in the world of mental health dates back 10 years, in my work with families of Autism, Substance abuse and misuse, Student-athletes, Life- transitions, and family therapy. I enjoy introducing people back to themselves as they unpack their past with grace and patience. If you are experiencing racing thoughts, overthinking, or people-pleasing, let our work together find the root cause and, from there, uncover solutions that work for you. I believe that therapy does not have to be "forever," and my role is to safely get you to a place of wholeness within your next quest and journey.

You're the one everyone relies on-the one who holds it all together, shows up, and keeps going even when you're exhausted. On the outside, things may look fine. On the inside, you might feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns you can't seem to break. If that sounds familiar, you're not alone, and you don't have to keep doing it this way. I have extensive experience in supporting individuals, couples, and families in their most vulnerable moments. I bring a calm, grounded presence to situations of anxiety, trauma, and emotional distress.

My practice, Luna Encadenada Psychotherapy, reflects my ancestral roots and the values that guide my work. "Luna," my paternal grandmother's maiden name, evokes healing, cycles, and intuition. "Encadenada," derived from my maternal grandfather's surname, symbolizes strength through connection to self, family, and something greater.

Taking the first step toward change isn’t easy—but you’ve already done it by starting your search for a therapist.

Now, I invite you to take the next step and schedule your first appointment. Whether that’s with me or another provider, what matters most is that you commit to investing in yourself.

You deserve support, healing, and a space where you can grow. If you’re ready, I’m here to walk alongside you. My focus is on helping individuals clarify their vision for the future while building on their existing strengths to foster growth, resilience, and lasting change. I take a motivational and strengths-based approach to counseling, offering encouragement and support as you navigate your path through life’s challenges.

Since 2011, I have worked with women at all stages of pregnancy and motherhood, including those who have experienced infertility, pregnancy loss or complications, birth trauma, a NICU stay and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.

I am dedicated to providing support to parents and being a mom myself, I understand the joys and hardships!

I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin and I have a BS in Psychology from Texas State University.

Welcome! I’m Kristin Petersen, MSW, LICSW, and I’ve been a psychotherapist for more than 13 years. I primarily work with women and individuals who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and the many pressures that can leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself.

My experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. I’ve supported clients through both everyday challenges and more complex concerns, including trauma, co-occurring conditions, behavioral concerns, and significant life changes. I believe your experiences, relationships, culture, and personal history all matter when understanding what you are going through.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and honest. I won’t simply tell you what you “should” do. Instead, we’ll work together to understand what’s happening, identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck, and develop practical strategies that fit your life. I draw from cognitive and person-centered approaches and incorporate solution-focused strategies to help you build insight while also making meaningful changes.

Therapy is a place where you can be honest without fear of judgment. Whether you’re starting therapy for the first time or returning because something in your life no longer feels manageable, my goal is to help you feel heard, understood, and supported while developing the tools and confidence to move forward.

You don’t have to have everything figured out before you begin. We can start exactly where you are.

Every person has a story. The culmination of experiences in one's life shapes how they view themselves, their relationships, and the world. I have a passion for helping clients celebrate their unique strengths and gifts they share with others. With experiences in both private practice and hospitals, I have noticed a particular need for clients to separate their view of themselves from their current difficulties and circumstances. In spite of where clients may find themselves at the moment, my belief is that they have overcome every difficulty, challenge, and trauma that they have faced up to the present moment. As such, they will withstand their current circumstances, and will again declare victory.

I specialize in working with people with Anxiety, Phobias, PTSD, Adjustment Disorders and Codependency. I also work with people on setting and maintaining boundaries, goal-setting, assertiveness training, communication skills, changing thoughts and behaviors and coping skills. I provide support when you are in crisis, need help with parenting skills and work with you to reduce symptoms that affect your everyday life. If you want to incorporate bible scripture or prayer, I am happy to provide this support! If requested, sessions can include walking, movement, meeting inside or outside the office.