Kristina Houck, LCSW

I have nearly two decades of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker supporting individuals in a variety of roles. I earned a Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology from the University of Portland in 2000 and a Masters in Social Work at the University of Washington. I mentored, counseled, and taught college students at the University of Portland. I launched and coordinated a violence prevention program aimed at providing bystanders concrete strategies for intervening to prevent harm from occurring and creating a culture of safety for all. I was an advocate for survivors of sexual assault and LGBTQ+ students, educating the community on how to be an ally for marginalized groups. I worked with adults, teens, and families at the Portland DBT Institute where I supported individuals in overcoming suffering and improving relationships. I also worked with parents facing the challenges of parenting, providing them support and equipping them with concrete strategies to decrease conflict and improve communication. 

In addition, I am a Zen Buddhist priest with Catholic roots. I believe that our mental and emotional well-being is supported by spiritual practice and am open to incorporating individuals’ spiritual beliefs into the work we do together. I am committed to social and racial justice and strive to dismantle the systems and structures that uphold white supremacy and patriarchy in our society. My pup, Hugo, works with me. He is a tender soul who offers pets at the beginning of sessions and then lies down quietly as we commence our work together.

Professional Interests and Areas of Expertise:

I have experience working with culturally diverse adults and adolescents in addressing a range of issues including: relationship issues, parenting challenges, personal identity discernment, sexual assault trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, as well as school- and career-related issues. I teach the practices of self compassion and Loving Kindness to aid in healing and transforming lives. I have a passion for creating a culture of inclusion and equity and believe that our personal freedom is bound up in our collective liberation.