Kristina Vaher is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate and Outpatient Psychotherapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health and Wellness. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from UNC Chapel Hill and her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Concentration in Play Therapy from UNC Charlotte. She is currently pursuing her registered play therapist credential under the supervision of Emily Cannon, LCSW, RPT-S. 

She has a particular interest in working with infants and their parents, children, adolescents, and young adults. Drawing from her concentration in child and adolescent mental health and advanced training in play therapy, she provides developmentally responsive, trauma-informed care to young clients and their families. She employs a play-based and relational approach, aiming to create a safe and nurturing space where children feel secure enough to express themselves. She also partners closely with caregivers to support lasting change at home and beyond. She uses therapeutic elements of Child Centered Play Therapy with some directive techniques, Art Therapy, as well as Sand Tray therapy. 

She has experience working with children and adolescents in both agency and schools, as well as in individual and group settings. She is passionate about working with those navigating grief and loss, anxiety and depression, behavioral challenges, trauma, children with chronic illnesses, and those going through life transitions. 

When working with adolescents and young adults, she uses elements from Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Internal Family Systems, Existential therapy, and Gestalt therapy. When appropriate, she also uses elements of somatic and mindfulness activities as well as expressive arts techniques. 

She is honored to walk alongside children and families on their journey and excited to offer a space where every part of them is welcome. She believes that healing begins when a person feels truly seen, accepted, and supported just as they are. She looks forward to the opportunity to walk alongside you on your journey!

In her spare time, she enjoys baking, reading a good thriller, doing yoga, as well as spending time outside in nature.