Kris Burns has her bachelor’s degree in recreational therapy with a minor in art from Slippery Rock University. She is a Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist (CTRS) with specializations in Geriatrics and Behavioral Health.

She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in clinical mental health and school counseling at Walsh University, with the intention of earning her Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and School Counselor licenses upon graduation.

Kris has previous experience leading art as therapy groups with children of all abilities at recreational therapy summer camps. More recently, Kris has had several years of clinical experience facilitating daily groups on adult and geriatric inpatient psychiatric units in a hospital setting. She often utilizes modalities such as painting, drum circles, reminiscence, behavioral relaxation techniques, leisure education, and Tai Chi.

Her therapeutic approach is eclectic. She wants to meet each person where they are and utilize what works best for them. She mainly uses a combination of person-centered, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and expressive therapies. Kris believes in being empathetic, nonjudgmental, and supporting people as they go through their healing process and grow emotionally. Additionally, she believes that some topics can be challenging to discuss and are better addressed through expressive therapies.

Kris is excited to work with people of all ages and backgrounds. She is passionate about ensuring that everyone’s story is heard, that no one feels like just a number, and about supporting others in their time of need. 

In her free time, Kris enjoys spending time with friends and family, hiking, kayaking, creating art, reading, and playing the flute.