Hi, I'm Kris (they/she)

Sabaidee, I'm Kris Banda (they/she), and I'm here to create a safe and nurturing space where you can explore, heal, and grow. As a counselor, I draw from my own experiences as a child of immigrants and refugees, understanding the layers of complexity and vulnerability that come with sharing your story. Beyond therapy, I find solace in kayaking and dreaming of future adventures with my partner. I'm deeply committed to advocacy, volunteering at nonprofits to make a positive impact in the lives of marginalized communities, just like yours.

 

Healing Immigration, Intergenerational, and Complex Trauma

When you enter therapy, you’re taking the first step toward healing from the deep-rooted effects of intergenerational and complex trauma. Therapy offers you a space to process these complexities and begin to break free from the cycles of trauma that affect your daily life.​ You will gain clarity on how past family dynamics and generational trauma are influencing your present. By understanding these patterns, you’ll be empowered to make decisions that align with who you are, not just the expectations placed on you. Whether you’re grappling with identity struggles, adoption, fostering, or being part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, you will find a space where your experiences are respected and understood.

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Through this process, you will learn how to heal from trauma, while also building resilience. You’ll feel a sense of liberation as you reclaim your voice and your narrative, allowing you to live in a way that honors your true self. Therapy will help you to not only address the pain but also celebrate the strengths and wisdom you’ve gained from your experiences.

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Dialectical Behavior Therapy 

Adolescence is a critical time in life, filled with challenges and change. If you or your teen is struggling with difficult emotions or behaviors, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) offers a path forward. You will learn effective strategies to manage emotions, navigate social relationships, and improve overall well-being.

As a teen, you may often feel overwhelmed by the pressures around you. Therapy will help you gain control over your emotions, giving you tools to respond to challenges with confidence and calm. You will learn how to better communicate your feelings, avoid impulsive actions, and build stronger relationships. Therapy provides a space where you can explore your identity and make sense of the changes you’re going through, all in a safe, non-judgmental environment.

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For families, this journey is shared. Therapy helps both teens and caregivers develop skills for better communication and understanding. You will work together to create a healthier family dynamic where everyone’s needs are acknowledged and respected. Through DBT, families learn to approach conflict with compassion, leading to more connected relationships and fewer misunderstandings. You’ll leave with tools that benefit not just your teen but your entire family.

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DBT isn’t just for teens—adults can also benefit from learning skills to manage difficult emotions, navigate relationships, and improve daily functioning. Whether you’re struggling with stress, emotional regulation, or communication challenges, DBT provides practical tools to respond with clarity and confidence. In a collaborative, nonjudgmental environment, you’ll develop strategies to reduce impulsive reactions, strengthen relationships, and approach life with greater self-awareness and balance.

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Embracing Neurodivergence: Autism and ADHD

If you’re living with ADHD or autism, therapy can help you understand how your mind works and develop strategies to thrive. Many neurodivergent adults face unique challenges in work, relationships, and daily life, but therapy can help you embrace your strengths while managing difficulties. Together, we’ll create an approach that acknowledges the realities you face, celebrates neurodiversity, and provides tools for success, without forcing you to fit into a world that isn’t always designed for you.

 

​Let's Begin the Journey

Together, we'll embark on a journey of decolonizing therapy, recognizing that by dismantling oppressive systems within ourselves, we contribute to the liberation of our entire community. This means creating a space where your experiences, identities, and emotions are not just respected, but celebrated. It means fostering an environment where you feel empowered to explore the depths of your inner world without fear of judgment or discrimination.

 

Reach out today to take the first step toward healing, growth, and liberation.