Dr. Kristie Wood
Specializing in Adult Mental Health, Couples Therapy, and Dementia & Caregiver Support
We all carry stories of loss, change, and the search for connection—whether it’s the frustration of not being heard, the ache of feeling unseen, or the uncertainty of life’s transitions. Hi, I’m Dr. Kristie Wood, a licensed clinical psychologist and researcher who helps people find meaning, resilience, and genuine connection when life feels overwhelming.
A Broad Lens on Connection & Change
Although much of my work has focused on understanding how dementia reshapes relationships, my passion lies in supporting anyone navigating the pain of emotional disconnection—whether that’s anxiety, grief, identity shifts, or the ripple effects of caregiving. I’ve seen firsthand how the need to feel seen and validated doesn’t disappear when circumstances change; in fact, it often becomes more urgent. My goal is to translate complex research and real-world experience into compassionate, practical therapy for all who feel adrift.
Although much of my work has focused on understanding how dementia reshapes relationships, my passion lies in supporting anyone navigating the pain of emotional disconnection—whether that’s anxiety, grief, identity shifts, or the ripple effects of caregiving. I’ve seen firsthand how the need to feel seen and validated doesn’t disappear when circumstances change; in fact, it often becomes more urgent. My goal is to translate complex research and real-world experience into compassionate, practical therapy for all who feel adrift.
Credentials & Core Insights
Academic Foundations: I graduated from UC Berkeley (B.A. in Cognitive Neuroscience; Creative Writing minor) and earned my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at UT Austin. My early research at UCSF examined how brain and behavior interact; this laid the groundwork for my lifelong curiosity about how we relate to one another, especially under stress.
Research Fellow, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus: In this role, I spearhead projects on relational well-being—particularly how families cope when a loved one’s emotional world shifts (as in dementia). But these insights translate across many kinds of change: divorce, chronic illness, loss, and life transitions.
Pioneering Study on “Being Forgotten”: I conducted the first research on what it feels like to be “forgotten” by a parent with dementia—work recently featured in The New York Times. This taught me how core our need for validation is from birth onward, and why its absence cuts so deeply.
Filmmaker & Storyteller: I produced Face to Face, a short documentary that gives voice to families’ often-silent struggles. Whether through film, writing, or clinical practice, I strive to illuminate the unspoken and celebrate the small moments of humanity.
Therapeutic Approach
Warm, Evidence-Based Care: In sessions, I blend research-driven techniques (CBT, attachment-informed interventions, and narrative therapy) with genuine empathy. I meet you where you are—whether you’re wrestling with caregiving stress, grief over identity changes, anxiety about the future, or feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you.
Holistic & Individualized: Your story matters. We’ll explore patterns in relationships, unspoken emotions, and values that ground you. Together, we’ll build practical tools for communication, self-compassion, and resilience—so that even in the face of loss or uncertainty, you can feel more anchored.
Educator & Advocate: Beyond our work together, I share strategies and insights through workshops, writing, and a monthly newsletter. I want you to feel less alone—knowing that others have walked this path and that support is possible.
Who Finds This Helpful
Adults Facing Major Transitions: Divorce, empty nest, career change, or moving to a new stage of life.
Loved Ones of People with Dementia: Spouses, adult children, or close friends who struggle with the emotional fallout of shifting personalities. (And if dementia isn’t your primary concern, you’ll still find tools here to manage grief, loss, and relationship upheaval.)
Anyone Longing to Be Seen: If you feel misunderstood, overlooked, or stuck in a pattern where you can’t express your true self, therapy can help you rediscover validation and connection.
What to Expect
In our first session, I’ll listen to your story—what’s bringing you in, what you’ve tried so far, and where you hope to be. From there, we’ll co-create a roadmap: combining research-based interventions with compassionate support. I’m committed to making complex ideas feel human and practical: helping you move from feeling “almost like you don’t exist” to feeling grounded, seen, and hopeful again.
In our first session, I’ll listen to your story—what’s bringing you in, what you’ve tried so far, and where you hope to be. From there, we’ll co-create a roadmap: combining research-based interventions with compassionate support. I’m committed to making complex ideas feel human and practical: helping you move from feeling “almost like you don’t exist” to feeling grounded, seen, and hopeful again.
Let’s Stay Connected
If you’d like to learn more—whether it’s through research updates, reflections on connection, or tips for managing life’s toughest moments—sign up for my newsletter or connect with me on social media. Therapy is an invitation to rewrite your story, and I’m here to walk with you.
If you’d like to learn more—whether it’s through research updates, reflections on connection, or tips for managing life’s toughest moments—sign up for my newsletter or connect with me on social media. Therapy is an invitation to rewrite your story, and I’m here to walk with you.