About Kirsten
I’m Kirsten Blankestijn. At Healing Minds Studio, I offer a thoughtful, collaborative approach to therapy, informed by my academic background in psychology and training in psychotherapy and clinical hypnotherapy.
I’m interested in understanding people in the context of their lives: the experiences that have shaped them, the relationships that matter, and the ways they cope.
Sometimes, familiar ways of coping can become limiting or leave us feeling stuck. Therapy offers an opportunity to understand these patterns with curiosity and compassion and to explore what might help now.
What working with me is like
My style is reflective, attentive and responsive to the individual. I take time to understand what brings you to therapy and what you would like our work to support.
There is space to explore difficult experiences, uncertainty, or feelings you haven’t yet found words for. We also consider how the understanding developed in sessions can translate into everyday life.
We work together at a pace that respects your readiness, with opportunities to discuss how you are finding the process and adjust our approach.
My approach
I work integratively, drawing on different therapeutic approaches according to your needs, preferences and goals.
This means we may explore connections between your thoughts, emotions, bodily responses and relationships. We might consider how past experiences influence the present, while also developing practical ways to respond to current challenges.
My work is informed by trauma-aware practice, with attention to choice, trust and your sense of safety. Mindfulness and reflective practices may be included where they are useful and feel appropriate to you.
Training and background
My academic qualifications include a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Postgraduate Diploma of Psychology Advanced (Honours).
My therapeutic training also includes clinical hypnotherapy, strategic psychotherapy, and integrative and holistic counselling approaches.
This background informs my interest in both psychological research and the individual experience of seeking support. I continue to develop my knowledge and skills through ongoing professional learning, with a commitment to thoughtful, evidence-informed and ethical practice.
Areas of particular interest
My interests include trauma-related difficulties, ADHD and neurodivergence, grief and loss, and significant life transitions.
I also work with concerns involving emotional burnout, ongoing stress, self-esteem and recurring relationship patterns. These experiences often overlap, and our work can make room for the whole picture rather than focusing on one difficulty in isolation.
Finding the right fit
Feeling comfortable with your therapist matters. You are welcome to ask questions about my background, how I work, and what you might expect from sessions.
If you would like to explore working together, please get in touch.