Connections understands the unique needs of women and moms.
Katrina Ciesielczyk, MS, LPC
Hi, I’m Katrina. I’m so glad you’re here!
Authentic human connection is my passion. Supporting women is my mission.
Research consistently shows that the strength of the therapeutic relationship is the most important predictor of a successful therapy outcome- and this connection is at the heart of my practice. I’m dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming space where women, in all stages of life, feel empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgement. My hope is that you feel truly seen and valued in our sessions and your strengths and challenges are validated and understood. I’m confident that the foundation of our unique relationship, along with evidence-based interventions, will allow you to build the skills and confidence you need to put yourself first and feel more relaxed, joyful, and connected again. You should be proud of yourself for prioritizing your needs and taking this step to seek help. I can’t wait to connect with you!
My Approach
My approach to therapy is person-centered, meaning I view you as the capable, resourceful expert of your life and sessions will be tailored to your individual needs. I use an integrative practice and draw from several evidence-based interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness techniques. Your experience is also viewed through the lens of the feminist framework, and I honor the strengths you possess and the unique challenges you face as a woman.
If you’re looking for a therapist with quick fixes and advice, I may not be the best fit for you. I believe in building our relationship, which is the key to change, while offering evidence-based skills and strategies that meet your needs and goals. I will always be professional, but I don’t take myself too seriously or pretend to have it all together. I consider myself to be down to earth and relatable, and I value compassion, honesty, authenticity, and humor. Our sessions will often involve a mix of updating me on your week, reflecting on how that strategy we talked about in session went in real life, and maybe some laughter or tears. It’s my job to help you out of the trenches and hold space for all your feelings- and I’m committed to that. Above all, I want you to feel seen, supported, and understood. I want you to know that you’re not alone in this messy, beautiful life and there is always hope.
Professional Background
I have a diverse background and have worked with children, teens, and adults in community mental health centers, substance abuse treatment centers, elementary and alternative schools, and private practice. I led an intensive outpatient program (IOP) for individuals with both substance use and mental health diagnoses as well as various anger management and anxiety management groups. I have experience providing individual, family, and group therapy to individuals struggling with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders, depression and mood disorders, relationship struggles, parenting issues, life transitions, and trauma, but serving and supporting women and moms is the most fulfilling at this stage of my life and career.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Arts from Purdue University with a major in Psychology and a minor in Sociology
Master of Science from Walden University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Texas Licensed Professional Counselor (License #84113)
Specialized training in CBT, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, and ACT, among others
Personal Life
I’m a daughter, friend, wife, mom of two wild little girls, and proud owner of a sweet cat named Darci. I grew up in the Midwest and always had a fascination with the human mind and a keen interest in people. Various mental health struggles also run in my family, so my awareness of these conditions and desire to help was strong from an early age. I decided to turn this passion into a career and pursued my degree in Psychology at Purdue University (Go Boilermakers!) After college, I spent four years living abroad in Melbourne, Australia, where I worked as a barista in a cafe (and developed my love of coffee) and volunteered at a non-profit supporting women experiencing domestic violence. I then relocated to the Mid-Atlantic with my Aussie-turned-US-citizen husband, completed my master’s degree, became licensed as a professional counselor, and welcomed our first daughter into the world. We moved to Houston, TX in 2020, so my husband could pursue his space nerd NASA dreams. We added another wild little girl to our family here, and while this climate took some adjusting, we’ve been surviving the heat and humidity ever since!
In my free time, I can be found chasing my naked toddler down the street, making and drinking coffee, connecting with friends and family, laughing, cooking, reading, spending too much time on social media, and watching terrible reality television.
