Kristy Demers

Kristy Demers, LCSW (She/Her)

Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Austin Mindfulness Center in Austin, Texas.

I recharge by meditating, getting outside, and being with people who lift me up.

Support for anxiety & stress, relationships, and self, identity & meaning.

Meet with Kristy

  • Online appointments.
  • Ages 8 and up: Adults (26–64), Children (Under 10), Teens (13–17), and Young Adults (18–25)
  • Languages: English.

Payment options: Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Carelon, Cigna, EHN, Optum, Oscar, Oxford, Private Pay / Self Pay, Sana, and United Healthcare.

Availability and insurance coverage are confirmed before scheduling.

Request an appointment with Kristy

Professional profile

Kristy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a master’s degree from The University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work. She is certified in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT) and carries a trauma informed approach into her practice. Kristy has worked as an individual and family therapist for the past four years at the Center for Child Protection. Kristy also has her Reiki (energy work) Master certification.

Welcome

It always makes me excited to know someone has reached a point where they are willing (or at least curious) to work toward change and healing. It may be your first time working with a therapist, or perhaps you are continuing a journey already begun. Either way, you are the agent of change, and I will be here to guide and support you along the way. I encourage you to continue reading and determine if my therapeutic approach feels like a good fit for you.

How I work

I like to take an individualized and holistic approach to the healing journey. I know there is not one style that fits all, so I like to start where you are and go from there. Feeling safe in our bodies is an important part of the work and I like to incorporate mindfulness techniques including breath work, meditation, and simple yoga poses that help promote release. I bring a down-to-earth and approachable demeanor to sessions and value authentic connection. I am certified in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT) and have primarily worked through a trauma-informed lens. Looking at experiences, attachment, learned beliefs and patterns can give us great insight in how to move forward. I also look at strengths and how individuals can work to create or improve support systems.

What Kristy helps with

  • Abandonment
  • ADHD
  • Anger
  • Anxiety
  • Attachment Concerns
  • Body Image
  • Caregiving Stress
  • Christian Spirituality
  • Codependency
  • Depression
  • Grief and Loss
  • Life Transitions
  • Panic Disorder
  • Parenting
  • Perfectionism
  • Post-IOP / Post-Hospitalization Care
  • PTSD
  • Relationship Concerns
  • Self-Esteem
  • Self-Harm
  • Sleep Difficulties
  • Spiritual Growth
  • Stress
  • Substance Use
  • Trauma

Who Kristy works with

  • Caregivers

How Kristy works

  • Behavior Modification
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Microcurrent Neurofeedback (MCN)
  • Mindfulness
  • Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT)
  • Play Therapy
  • Reiki / Energy Work

Therapist spotlight

What made you decide to become a counselor?

I have always loved connecting with people. Once I woke up to my own journey of healing, growth, and self-love, it seemed natural to support others on their journey as well.

If you could teach the world one skill or technique to improve their lives, what would it be?

Self-regualtion. So many hurtful things are done and said (to ourselves and others) in moments of anger. The more aware we become of our body's response to feelings, the quicker we will be able to calm our bodies and minds with whatever tools we find most helpful. Whether we are upset with our children or partner, we will only be heard if we first connect and then redirect (or discuss).

If you could recommend one book to all your clients, what would it be?

I can't narrow it down to one, so I will say The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel A. van der Kolk and The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer

How do you personally practice self-care?

I practice self care by meditating, being outside, and spending time with people that lift me up.

Have you personally been in counseling and if so, what did you learn about yourself?

Counseling has been an imperative part of my healing and growth journey. I have learned so much about myself, including how much stronger I am than I thought. I also learned the importance of listening to my body and trusting my own intuition more.

What inspires you to help others?

Others that help others and human connection.

Who is your ideal client?

Someone who is willing to show up for themselves and do the work.

How do you relate to Mindfulness? How do you incorporate it in your sessions?

Mindfulness is a big part of my life and something I strive to practice daily. Sometimes through meditation, sometimes by taking time to think before I respond, and sometimes by doing a quick body scan and taking a few deep breaths. I incorporate mindfulness into my sessions through discussion and introducing different tools so clients can decide what feels helpful and works for them.

If you are hosting a dinner party, who are the 3 people you would invite and why?

My grandma and grandpa, because I miss them, and Jesus Christ. Religious beliefs aside, I would love to hear what that guy has to say about pretty much anything.