Kristin Ortiz (LMSW, ACSW) received her Master’s Degree in Social Work at Columbia University. While in her master’s program, Kristin participated in the Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Intensive Training Program, organized by Drs. Marsha Linehan and André Ivanoff, and completed her DBT Intensive Training through Behavioral Tech, LLC. In addition, she has completed trainings in Motivational Interviewing and Imminent Suicide Risk Assessment and Intervention.

Kristin has been with BPS since 2021 and specializes in comprehensive DBT for high-risk individuals across various age groups. Kristin is also trained in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), a parent-based treatment for child/adolescent anxiety and OCD. Kristin is especially skilled at navigating complex cases that encompass a diverse array of symptoms, which may vary and evolve over time. Particularly noteworthy is Kristin’s exceptional talent for establishing meaningful connections with teenagers and young adults who may be grappling with challenging circumstances and have had difficulty connecting with mental health professionals in the past.

Kristin gained practical experience in comprehensive DBT during her clinical internships at Creedmoor Psychiatric Center and STEP Aftercare at The Children’s Village, where she worked with both high-risk adults and adolescents struggling with emotion regulation difficulties, self-injurious behaviors, and suicidal ideation. She also delivered short-term Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Depression, facilitated group therapy sessions, psychoeducation, and behavioral skills training.

Kristin is dedicated to striking a balance between acceptance and change in her approach, ensuring that her clients receive both empathetic and genuine understanding and nonjudgmental guidance. Kristin deeply cares about her clients and values the importance of assisting them in achieving their own unique goals, whatever they may be. Moreover, Kristin is passionate about delivering evidence-based behavioral interventions with a queer-affirming perspective, underscoring the importance of inclusive and affirming care.

Kristin is based in Los Angeles, where she shares her home with her partner and an assortment of furry friends (Boris, Kensington and Crab Motor) who keep things lively. When she steps away from her work, you’ll often find her jetting off to new destinations, diving into the latest books, and playfully nudging those around her to embrace the wonders of DBT skills.

Additionally, Kristin extends her expertise to individuals in both New York and California through remote therapy, offering compassionate support and guidance to clients regardless of their location.