Kristen Slesar

Kristen Slesar has a diverse work experience in various roles related to mental health and trauma therapy. Kristen worked as a Bilingual Child and Adolescent Trauma Therapist at the Center for Court Innovation from July 2012 to March 2017. Kristen then became a Project Director at the same organization from April 2017 onwards. In 2019, they joined The Headstrong Project as a Clinician. Kristen also worked as a Psychotherapist in Private Practice, starting from April 2012 and continuing to the present. Kristen served as an Associate Faculty and Director of Veterans Affairs at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons from March 2012 to September 2014 and January 2013 to May 2021, respectively. Prior to that, they worked as the SAFE and Advocate Program Coordinator and Therapist at New York Presbyterian Hospital from December 2006 to August 2012. Kristen has also held positions as an Emergency Department Social Worker at Elmhurst Medical Center of Queens from 2006 to 2008, a Trauma-Focused Psychotherapist at Safe Horizon from 2006 to 2007, a Clinician and SAFE Program Coordinator at Mt. Sinai Sexual Assault and Violence Intervention Program from 2004 to 2006, and a Coordinator of Basic Center, Runaway and Homeless Youth Services at Green Chimneys Children's Services from 2002 to 2005. Kristen has received certifications in EMDR and TF-CBT.

Kristen Slesar has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Latin American Studies from Stanford University, which they obtained from 1997 to 2001. Kristen also has a Master's degree in Social Work from New York University, which they completed from 2002 to 2004. In addition, Kristen holds a Master of Science degree in Narrative Medicine from Columbia University, which they earned from 2009 to 2011. Kristen has obtained various certifications, including being a Rape Crisis Hotline Counselor from The Anti-Violence Project in 2005, completing International Trauma Studies from New York University in 2004, and being certified as a Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist through TFCBT.org. Kristen is also EMDR certified and has received training in Sexual Assault Forensic Examination. Kristen has undergone supervision in field instruction as well.