Kelly Simonson

I started my career working in college counseling centers and moved into private practice in 2012. During my time in college settings, I developed several specialties working with "women's issues" (e.g., sexual abuse/assault, body image/eating disorders, self-injury, relationship concerns). I spent a lot of time working with diverse clients and developing a specialty in working with the LGBTQ population. In the last few years, I have developed a passion for working with relationship issues, especially those that may not get a lot of support from mainstream society (e.g., consensual non-monogamy, kink). I also have spent time working on my own issues and try to use what I've learned to improve my own self-awareness, empathy skills, and ability to connect with a wide range of people.

I'm a feminist who is passionate about intersectionality and calling people on their stuff. I believe that vulnerability is the key to connection, healing, and us being our best selves--ironically while often showing the parts we have labeled our "worst selves". I value authenticity and showing up while being true to yourself. I value lifelong learning and challenge myself to always be growing. I love my job and feel so incredibly lucky to be doing this and grateful that I seem to make a positive difference in my tiny corner of the world. I'm not quite sure I can go as far as to say that I would keep working if I won the lottery (I have a lot of places I'd like to travel someday!) but I would consider it and I would definitely choose my profession again. Lastly, while I believe that therapy is serious work and can be heavy, I also know that I can genuinely share a lot of laughter with my clients in a healthy way. Oh, and I tend to swear a lot but will try to tame it if it bothers you.