Kristin Christopher, M.S., LMHC, CPDT-KA, CCFP
Kristin Christopher is a dedicated mental health professional, educator, and behavior specialist committed to guiding individuals, families, and organizations toward healthier behaviors, stronger relationships, and meaningful life change. Her work is rooted in a passion for helping others move toward “Sea Hope through Waves of Change,” integrating clinical insight, behavioral science, and compassionate support to foster growth across diverse populations.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Flagler College, where she focused on radio and video journalism, along with minors in Political Science and Psychology. She later earned a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University, with specialties in Marriage and Family Therapy, Crisis, and Trauma. Her advanced training includes certification as a Child-Centered Play Therapist through the Play Strong Institute, reflecting her commitment to developmentally informed and trauma-sensitive care.
Kristin is a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Family Law Mediator, bringing both clinical expertise and conflict-resolution skills to her practice. She is the owner and clinician at Sea Hope Counseling (Sea Hope Strategies LLC), where she provides therapy for individuals aged 4 through 80+, specializing in anxiety, ADHD, autism support, parenting challenges, life transitions, and high-stress professions. Her integrative approach includes cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, interpersonal neurobiology, polyvagal theory, and neuro-linguistic programming.
In addition to her clinical work, Kristin is the owner of Sea Dog Training under Sea Dog Solutions LLC, where she applies her expertise in animal behavior science, learning theory, and canine behavior modification. She has served in roles such as Behavior and Kennel Manager at Good Karma Pet Rescue and has extensive experience in dog training, foster care, shelter behavior consulting, and service animal support programs, including Pets for Vets. She is also an adjunct professor at Flagler College, teaching behavioral science courses such as Abnormal Psychology and Behavior Modification.
Across her professional and volunteer endeavors, Kristin remains deeply engaged in community service and professional development. She is affiliated with organizations such as the American Counseling Association, Animal Behavior Society, International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, and Pet Professional Guild. Through her combined work in counseling, education, and animal behavior, she continues to advocate for healing, understanding, and transformation for both people and animals alike.
• Flagler College - B.A. in Communications, 1993–1996
• Minors: Political Science, Psychology
• Walden University - M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, 2021–2024
• Play Strong Institute - Certified Child-Centered Play Therapist, 2024
• Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
• Certified Child-Centered Play Therapist
• Certified Grief-Informed Counselor (CGC)
• Autism Spectrum Disorder Informed Specialist (ASDIS)
• Certified Safe and Sound Practitioner
• American Counseling Association
• American Psychological Association
• Psychology Today
• International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
• Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
• Animal Behavior Society (ABS)
• Canine Companions for Independence Southeast
• Humane Tomorrow (Foster, Adoption Counselor, Social Media Assistant)
• Evolutionary Dog Training (Assistant Instructor)
• United Dog Rescue (Training Consultant)
• Pets for Vets South Florida (Veteran-animal matching program)
• Humane Society of Broward County (Education, Camp Volunteer, Behavior Department Volunteer)
• Good Karma Pet Rescue (Foster, Trainer, Behavior Consultant)
• Canine Companions for Independence (Puppy Raiser & Volunteer)
Areas of Specialization/Expertise
- Child-Centered Play Therapy (ages 3–12)
- Family Counseling & Parent Consultations
- Parenting Support & Psychoeducation
- Neurodivergent populations (Autism, ADHD, Giftedness)
- Safe and Sound Protocol for nervous system regulation
- Adult mental health therapy
- Counseling for aviation professionals and families
- Reunification
- Family mediation
What do you enjoy most about practicing medicine?
What I enjoy most is connecting deeply with the population I serve. As someone who is legally blind, gifted, and neurodivergent, I bring a personal understanding of the experiences and perspectives of my clients. This lived experience allows me to relate to and support neurodivergent individuals, including those who are autistic, have ADHD, or are gifted. I particularly enjoy using child-centered play therapy, where the child guides the session, giving me insight into their needs while creating a safe and supportive environment for growth.
Locations
Sea Hope Counseling (Sea Hope Strategies LLC)
3440 US 1 S. Suite 404, Saint Augustine, FL 32086
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