Kristan

Ms Kristan Barnes

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

“It can be difficult to determine what we are looking for or what we need, I am an empathetic and receptive therapist who is determined to help you navigate your way through life in a way that works best for you.”

About Me

It can feel overwhelming when life's path seems unclear. As an empathetic and receptive therapist, I am here to guide you through these moments. We can explore your thoughts and feelings together, discovering what truly serves you. My approach focuses on creating a safe space where you can make sense of challenges at your own pace, helping you find clarity and a way forward that genuinely works for you.

Approach

When choices feel unclear, I help you break them into manageable steps and notice what actually helps you feel steadier. Sessions—in English, from my Ottawa office or online—move at a pace you set, mixing focused reflection with practical experiments between meetings so you can test what changes things for you. I use straightforward strategies tailored to attention, anxiety, anger, or transitions, and we track small shifts together. This approach suits people who want compassionate clarity and concrete progress.
Contact Kristan

Ask a quick question or arrange a time to meet.

Basic Information

In-person & Online

Services

Services Offered:

  • Counseling

    A form of talk therapy providing a safe, confidential space to explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviours with a trained professional.

    Learn more about Counseling
  • Relationship Counseling

    Counselling for couples or partners focused on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and strengthening emotional connection.

  • Online Therapy

    Therapy sessions conducted over video call, phone, or secure messaging, using the same professional methods delivered remotely.

    Learn more about Online Therapy
  • Psychotherapy

    In-depth therapeutic work that explores patterns in thoughts, emotions, and relationships to produce lasting psychological change.

    Learn more about Psychotherapy
  • CBT

    Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, a structured, evidence-based approach that identifies and changes unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours.

    Learn more about CBT
  • Individual Therapy

    One-on-one therapy sessions between a client and a therapist, focused on that person's specific concerns and goals.

    Learn more about Individual Therapy

Works With:

  • Adolescents
  • Adults
  • Couples
  • Elderly
  • Families
  • Individuals
  • Parents

Area of Expertise

Scope of Practice:

  • Life Transitions

    Major life changes, such as relocation, retirement, parenthood, or career shifts, that disrupt routine and require psychological adjustment.

    Learn more about Life Transitions
  • Anger

    An intense emotional response to perceived threat, injustice, or frustration that, when persistent or uncontrolled, can damage relationships and well-being.

    Learn more about Anger
  • Anxiety

    Persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that is disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily functioning.

    Learn more about Anxiety
  • ADHD / Attention

    A neurodevelopmental condition involving persistent difficulty with attention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity that interferes with daily functioning.

    Learn more about ADHD / Attention
  • Behaviour or Conduct Issues

    Persistent patterns of defiant, aggressive, or rule-breaking behaviour in children or adolescents that significantly disrupt home, school, or social life.

  • Stress / Burnout

    The body and mind's response to prolonged or excessive demands. When sustained, it can lead to emotional exhaustion, detachment, and reduced functioning (burnout).

    Learn more about Stress / Burnout
  • Personal Development

    The ongoing process of self-awareness, self-improvement, and reaching one's potential, pursued not because something is wrong but to live more fully.

  • Young Adult Issues

    The unique psychological challenges of emerging adulthood (18–25), including identity formation, independence, relationship navigation, and finding direction.

    Learn more about Young Adult Issues

Professional Title:

  • Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

    A psychotherapist completing supervised practice toward full registration as a registered psychotherapist.

Credentials

Registrations

College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO)

Psychotherapist

Qualifications

Memorial University of Newfoundland

Yorkville University

Service Areas

Online

In-person & Online

Ottawa, Ontario

Canada

Ottawa, Canada