Dr. Joanna Kristeva, LCSW, LISW

Dr. Joanna Kristeva is a licensed psychotherapist with a twelve year history of working with people affected by trauma, grief, depression, self-esteem difficulties, and major life transitions. Her clinical practice combines cognitive-behavioral methods with person-centered, strength-based perspectives informed by a multicultural background, allowing her to tailor treatment to each individual's needs and cultural context.

She holds a postgraduate degree from New York University and a doctorate in philosophy, and she completed specialized clinical training in the treatment of psychological trauma and complicated grief at Columbia University. Dr. Kristeva is licensed to practice in New York and Ohio and carries the credentials LCSW and LISW - LCSW meaning Licensed Clinical Social Worker and LISW meaning Licensed Independent Social Worker. Her twelve years of direct clinical experience are complemented by scholarly work as the author of several peer-reviewed journal articles and books.

Throughout her career she has focused on trauma and abuse, complicated grief, coping with life changes, and building self-worth, while also addressing related concerns such as attachment and abandonment, dissociation, and questions of life purpose. Dr. Kristeva applies evidence-informed techniques to help clients navigate painful experiences and build practical skills for managing symptoms and improving daily functioning.