About Me
Sometimes we find ourselves weighed down by the past, anxious about the future, and completely disconnected from the present. That was my reality for much of my younger adult life—pushing through each day with a forced smile, hoping no one would notice the turmoil inside. I was consumed by anxiety, unhappy with the direction of my life, and stuck in a cycle of unhealthy relationship patterns.
Being present felt impossible, and the idea of real change felt overwhelming. For a while, masking helped me get by—but eventually, it only deepened my disconnection. It wasn’t until I reached a breaking point that I realized change wasn’t just an option—it was necessary.
Tired of making choices that sabotaged my future self, I finally sought the guidance of a therapist. Through that commitment, I began peeling back the layers of pain and protective patterns that had quietly been running the show for years. Therapy helped me uncover the roots of my fearful-avoidant attachment style and better understand why I struggled to build and maintain relationships that truly nurtured me. With each session, I learned to untangle survival strategies from my true needs—and began creating space for connection, safety, and self-trust.
As I started to trust my intuition and accept myself for who I truly am—not who others expected me to be—transformation followed. I discovered the power of nurturing relationships that aligned with my values and brought genuine peace into my life. And just as importantly, I found the courage to release connections that no longer served me. I was finally able to step into my unapologetically authentic self. The shift was so profound, I knew I wanted to help others do the same.
I hold a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from East Texas A&M University and am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) through the NBCC. My training includes EMDR Therapy (EMDRIA-trained), Somatic Experiencing® (Beginning Level 2), Gender-Affirming Mental Health Assessments, and extensive work with complex trauma and nervous system regulation.
I strive to provide a culturally sensitive, nonjudgmental space where you can explore the deeper layers of what makes you uniquely you. My hope is to support you in your healing journey—helping you untangle the complexities of your past, reconnect with your body, and cultivate a greater sense of clarity, balance, and inner peace.
Specialization and Focus
I have a deep passion for working with individuals navigating:
Generational and childhood trauma
Relational wounds, including the mother wound
Attachment challenges, including anxious, avoidant, and disorganized styles
My work is grounded in the understanding that early experiences shape how we show up in relationships, how we view ourselves, and what we believe we deserve. Together, we’ll gently explore those layers—without shame—and build new, embodied ways of being.
As an affirmatively trained therapist, I love working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community as they explore identity, authenticity, and belonging. I also specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals—especially those with ADHD, sensory sensitivity, and social anxiety—by providing a space that honors their nervous system and lived experience.
As a mother of two adult children, I understand the transitions that come with pregnancy, parenting, and the shift to an empty nest. I offer compassionate guidance for those navigating these and other life pivots, helping you find resilience and meaning in every season.
Therapeutic Approach
My style is collaborative, compassionate, and deeply attuned to both the nervous system and the emotional landscape. I draw from:
EMDR Therapy
Somatic Therapy techniques
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
Traditional talk therapy
And always—trauma-informed care at the core
We’ll co-create a healing path tailored to your unique needs, values, and pace—centered on helping you feel more grounded, connected, and empowered in your own life.


Kris Williams MS, LMHC, LPC, NCC
she/her/hers
Washington State Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Colorado Licensed Professional Counselor
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When I’m out in the wild
I find so much joy in spending time outdoors with my partner and our three dogs, exploring the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. We’re always on the lookout for new trails, hidden gems, and local favorites—so if you have any recommendations, I’m all ears!
I’ve also got a deep love for good coffee—trying new roasters, perfecting my brew, and chatting over a cup (even if it’s virtual). Got a favorite roast or cozy café? I’m always up for discovering something new.
Contact Information
Kris@balancedrootscounseling.com
(360) 389-2048
© 2024, Balanced Roots Counseling, PLLC, All rights reserved.
Kris Williams, MS, LMHC, LPC, NCC




Typical availability for sessions:
Mon–Wed, 10am–12pm and 2pm–6pm | Thurs, 9am-12pm and 1-3pm | Closed Fridays

