Certified Relationship Social Worker

More About Kriss

• What are three strengths you have as a Psychologist/Counsellor?
  • Discerning (ability to separate emotional intensity from deeply ingrained behavioural patterns)
  • Flexible (adapts therapeutic approach to fit different personalities, cultures, temperaments and presentations)
  • Patient (guides couples steadily through deeply rooted, complex challenges)
• How many years counselling experience do you have?

  Over 10 years.

• What is the most satisfying and fulfilling part of the work you do?
  • Firstly, having the privilege of working with people from all walks of life with many different challenges, as well as being able to try and see the world from their perspective. It is amazing when you are able to guide clients in the direction they want to go and help them get there.
  • Secondly, the never-ending pursuit of knowledge and building professional competence.
• What's an example of a couple you have helped the most?

  Approximately one year ago, I began working with a couple who were considering separation. They have been together for around 10 years and have two girls under 5.

  The couple presented with several challenges. The husband worked away in a fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) role, while his wife experiences anxiety, isolation and a growing sense of emotional disconnection. When he returned home, she often sought time for herself, which he interpreted as a lack of commitment to their family. His primary concern was keeping the family together, while she felt unheard and emotionally unsupported. He presented with traits associated with neurodivergence, which were important to consider in understanding their communication styles and relationship dynamics.

  Our therapeutic goal was to identify and interrupt their negative interaction cycle. Her feelings of emotional disconnection contributed to her withdrawing from family life, while he interpreted this withdrawal as rejection, further reinforcing their difficulties.

  Through therapy, he developed a greater understanding of her emotional needs and became better equipped to respond to them. As she began to feel more supported and understood, she became less inclined to withdraw, allowing the couple to rebuild their emotional connection and strengthen their relationship.

  In recent feedback, the wife expressed her belief that “Kriss saved our marriage.” This was a particularly meaningful reflection on the progress they had made together and their commitment to rebuilding their relationship.