VIBRANT LIFE COUNSELING AND COACHING
KRISTEN FRENCH, LPC, NCC
940 E Carol St
Meridian, ID 83646
208-949-1686
kristenfrench@vlcco.com
EMBRACE THE FUTURE WITH VIBRANT LIFE COUNSELING AND COACHING
Live Your Best Life
MY APPROACH TO COUNSELING
Kristen French, LPC, NCC
My approach to counseling is based on a willingness to enter into an individual's experience alongside them. I believe in engaging with others in a manner that promotes dignity, trust, and choice. I strive to treat each person as a unique individual, worthy of unconditional acceptance, regardless of their personal circumstances or struggles. It is my desire to come alongside, challenge, and encourage my clients to find healing emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually.
I believe that each of us incorporates our life experiences into our approach to the world; our interactions with others, our response to challenges, and our motivations all link to our previous experiences, emotions, and beliefs about the world. Sometimes our approaches are effective and productive, and sometimes they are faulty and create new challenges for us.
My specialties include working with pre and post bariatric surgery clients, weight loss clients, women in transitional phases of life, and clients recovering from religious-based trauma and/or experiencing faith transitions.
I also work with clients on anxiety and depressive disorders, personal growth and motivation, .
My goal is to help my clients break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. Life's too short to be unhappy, unsure, or unfulfilled. Let me help you learn and develop better ways to handle the issues that are standing in the way of your goals. Get in touch today to see how you can begin to live your most vibrant life.
SPECIALTY FOCUS AREAS
WEIGHT LOSS AND BARIATRIC SURGERY
Compassionate Processing of Barriers and Understanding Encouragement
In 2005 I had bariatric surgery. I was so hopeful it might change my life. It was a roller coaster ride of emotions; hope, discouragement, celebration, and defeat were my constant companions for 12 years. In 2015 I sought counseling to help me understand why I continued to struggle so much in this area of my life. After 1 ½ years of counseling I had a second bariatric surgery. With my new understanding of myself and my approach to the world, and with new skills to handle triggers, I have been successful in my weight loss and for the first time in my adult life I feel appreciative of my body and all we’ve been through together.
I currently I am working with several local bariatric surgeons to help prepare their patients prepare for the changes that lie in store for them as they move forward in their weight loss journey. I also specialize in helping those who are struggling after their bariatric surgeries.
I recognize that not every wants or needs surgery to be successful with weight loss and I can help you identify the emotional and behavioral factors that help and hurt weight loss efforts. Often we can identify triggers and historical events in our lives that are sabotaging to weight loss efforts, but frequently just knowing what these factors are is not the same as processing the emotional fallout of them. Using various counseling strategies, including EMDR, Brainspotting, Somatic practices, and other techniques can reduce the barriers to weight loss that stem from these factors.
It is my hope that I can help others come to this same place of peace and joy as they traverse the emotional and physical landscape of weight loss.
WOMEN IN TRANSITION
Empowerment during Transition to Help You Rebuild a Vibrant Life
There are many times in our lives when we find ourselves standing on the precipice of something new. These are times we are called upon to reign in our impulses, examine our choices, draw upon our strength and seek help for our needs. Transition may take the shape of a divorce, a new relationship, change of environment or family dynamics. Sometimes it is the beginning of a goal or the culmination of a goal. These transitions can be welcome and sought out, or forced upon us and frightening, or anywhere between. When seeking to live a vibrant life, it is helpful to look forward and seek those who will support us in creating the best path into this new phase of life.
Working through transitional phases of life with clarity and forward thinking, while recognizing options and potential pitfalls is empowering. Sometimes it is helpful to do some analysis of personal growth, goals, and one's own strengths and weaknesses. Occasionally it is helpful to use scientifically researched and evidence based practices and tools to create an effective plan to navigate the changes that come up in our lives. I enjoy helping my clients take control of their destiny through the use of these tools and counseling practices.
FAITH TRANSITIONS AND RELIGIOUS BASED TRAUMA
Re-centering and Forgiving of Self and Others to Move Forward
Throughout the world, including the Treasure Valley, there is a growing population of individuals who are examining their religious and spiritual beliefs in an effort to find inner peace. This can include challenging, questioning, doubting, embracing, and abandoning previously held foundational religious and spiritual beliefs. Going through this process can be scary, confusing, and sometimes exhilarating as the individual begins to identify core beliefs about who they are, what their purpose is, and how they believe they should live and worship. This process can be difficult for individuals and on their relationships with family and friends who may not understand, accept, or approve of this transitional exploration.
There is a growing body of evidence regarding the devastating impact of trauma at the hands of spiritual leaders and from the potentially harmful and practices and doctrines of some religions. This type of trauma is especially damaging to one's sense of self and can impact relationships, sense of worth, belief in one's potential, and understanding of one's very identity.
I offer support to those going through faith transitions and religious based trauma and will work to help you find a resolution and integration that feels true and authentic and allows you to live a peaceful and vibrant life.
Whatever you’re struggling with, I’m here to help you achieve your goals. Contact me to find out more.
When I awaken each day, excited to embrace each moment and find the joy, variety, power, and passion therein; it is then, that I am living a vibrant life.
Kristen French
BUSINESS HOURS
APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE
Weekdays
Call to schedule appointment
SESSION
Counseling sessions are 50 minutes during which time we will touch base on current or new stressors and work towards meeting your counseling goals. Counseling sessions focus on underlying causes of behavior and thought patterns, and healing from trauma, moving towards a healthier and more vibrant life.
$140
COUNSELING INTAKE SESSION
During your first session we will complete a thorough intake including some paperwork and assessments.
$190
I accept some insurances. I apologize for the inconvenience of not accepting all insurance.
It is up to you, the client, to check with your insurance to confirm coverage. Prior to scheduling clients should confirm what their out-of-pocket costs will be after insurance pays a claim. Insurance will be billed if I am in the network, otherwise payment is due in full each session.
I do not participate in EAPs at this time.
Co-pay is due at the beginning of each session. This is not a guarantee of coverage or reimbursement by your insurance company.
Late cancellations and no shows will be charged a fee.
VIBRANT LIFE COUNSELING AND COACHING
LPC, NCC
KRISTEN FRENCH
Here is a picture of me living my vibrant life with Sampa and Chum-Chum in India.
I am a mom of adult kids who have become such enjoyable and amazing humans to hang out with. I have a Great Dane/Lab mix dog who keeps me busy and provides immense joy in my life. I love to read, swim, paddleboard, camp, dance, and travel. I look forward to learning about you and helping you live a vibrant and authentic life.
