kristan shaw

M.ED., ALC, NCC

Supervised by Michelle Torbor, MA, LPC-S, BCN

205-502-4620

kristan@thesacred-space.com

*TELEHEALTH ONLY

Meet Kristan

Hey, I'm Kristan - although depending on who's calling, you might hear Mom, Coach, Commissioner, Counselor, Bruh or "Mrs. Kristan." Each title represents a different part of my life, but they all point to what matters most to me: family, community, and walking alongside others as they navigate life's challenges.

I'm an Associate Licensed Counselor (ALC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with a heart for creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, relationship challenges, or simply feeling overwhelmed, my goal is to offer a place where you can exhale, feel safe, and remember that you don't have to carry it all alone.

My journey into counseling wasn't just about choosing a career—it was about answering a calling. I've always been drawn to helping others, whether serving youth through community sports, supporting students in school settings, or advocating for mothers and underserved communities. Those experiences have reinforced something I believe with my whole heart: healing happens when people feel safe enough to be their authentic selves.

As your counselor, I'll celebrate your victories, sit with you through life's difficult moments, and gently challenge you when growth calls you beyond your comfort zone. I believe therapy isn't about becoming someone different—it's about rediscovering the strength, resilience, and worth that have always been within you.

When I'm not in the counseling office, I'm a proud mom of three incredible boys who keep me laughing, grounded, and constantly learning. They remind me every day of the importance of patience, grace, flexibility, and unconditional love. I also enjoy serving my community, cheering on young athletes, continuing to learn, and finding joy in life's everyday moments.

I'm truly honored you're here. Reaching out for support is one of the bravest decisions you can make, and if you're ready, I'd be honored to walk alongside you as you pursue healing, growth, and hope.

My Approach

I believe the relationship between counselor and client is the foundation of meaningful change. My priority is creating a welcoming, judgment-free environment where you feel comfortable showing up exactly as you are—without pressure to have all the answers or pretend everything is okay.

Because no two stories are the same, I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs using evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and trauma-informed care. Together, we'll identify your strengths, build practical coping skills, challenge unhelpful patterns, and work toward the life you want to create.

I have a special passion for working with adolescents, young adults, families, and women navigating life's many transitions, including motherhood and perinatal mental health. My hope is that every client leaves feeling more empowered, more hopeful, and better equipped to navigate whatever comes next.

At Sacred Space Counseling & Consulting, my mission is simple: to create a space where healing begins, resilience grows, and every person is reminded that their story matters.

Healing doesn't require perfection—it simply begins with showing up. I'm glad you're here.