Alyssa Kittleson, MSW, LICSW, LADC
alyssa@affinitypsych.com
Welcome! I’m Alyssa. I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and I am so glad you’re here!
I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Augsburg University, specializing in clinical social work and alcohol and drug counseling, and received further education in play therapy through Capella University. I have experience working in adolescent day treatment, substance use treatment, and children’s intensive outpatient services.
Currently, I work with children, adolescents, and young adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, and neurodivergence.
How I Work
As a relational therapist, I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is key to working toward healing and change. I consider myself a laid-back person who highly values authenticity, and I will also hold you accountable and challenge you gently. I believe in helping you feel safe and comfortable in therapy so you can make the changes you want to and talk about the hard stuff. I want to empower you, and I see you as the expert in the room. My role is to support you in this therapeutic process!
I like to give my clients the option to go beyond “talk therapy,” so in session, we may do a variety of things. I welcome playing games, using fidgets, creativity, and laughter. I also love play therapy! I incorporate play into my sessions with children and adolescents often, as play is a natural medium of expression for them.
I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my practice and aim to understand the big picture through an attachment-focused, systemic lens. Particularly in my work with children and adolescents, I value collaboration with caregivers, which includes parent coaching and support.
What Sets Me Apart As a Therapist?
My strengths as a therapist are being discerning, authentic, and highly empathetic, which helps to create a warm, safe environment for therapy.
Personally, I love plants, spinning records, reading, going to concerts, and trying new coffee and tea shops around the Twin Cities.
I look forward to meeting you soon!
