Kirsten Bonaventura,
Psy.D.
“To round itself out, life calls not for perfection, but for completeness.” -Carl G. Jung
License numbers: TX 38933, PSY18586, APIT 19955
My path to becoming a psychologist was solidified in adolescence. I remember that therapy during that important time in my life helped me feel understood. I began the journey of untangling myself from the expectations I felt from others. This increased my interest in understanding the impact of our upbringings on the choices we make throughout our lives.
Feeling passionate about helping underserved children in particular, I graduated from Pepperdine University with a Masters Degree in Psychology, and then chose to pursue my doctorate with a special emphasis in child, individual and family therapy at Alliant University.
After graduating, I continued my education with specialized coursework at the Jung Institute in Los Angeles, focusing on analytic therapy and sandtray work. These advanced trainings taught me how to use symbolism and play to better understand unconscious material. I also learned the value of connecting with and accepting all aspects of ourselves.
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For the first half of my career as a licensed psychologist, I worked in various clinics and hospitals treating children and adults who had been through significant trauma. I was drawn to the impact of various family dynamics, including disrupted attachments, and realized how without supportive, effective intervention, unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior can be passed down through generations. My work at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles taught me that even in some of the most challenging situations, people are resilient.
Now, having been in full-time private practice for over 15 years, I specialize in treating adults and children who are struggling with symptoms of depression and anxiety, including low self-esteem, difficult relationship issues, and those needing support while navigating major life transitions. I also continue to help adults process trauma that they are still carrying.
My approach is eclectic, drawing from psychodynamic, family systems, and attachment theories, while integrating cognitive behavioral strategies, and play therapy as needed. I truly believe that in a trusting therapeutic relationship, we can learn to better understand ourselves, and recognize the shifts we need to make to improve our lives. It takes courage, but life is too precious not to try!
I see clients both in-person and online, and am licensed in California and Texas, as well as all PSYPACT participating states. When I am not working I enjoy painting, quality time with family, and spending time with friends.
