Christelle Kankalian, M.S., LMHC
Christelle Kankalian, M.S., LMHC, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in the treatment of substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. With extensive experience in dual-diagnosis settings, she has worked with individuals navigating addiction, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and psychotic disorders. Her clinical work is grounded in compassion, authenticity, and a deep understanding of how mental health and substance use intersect.
Christelle believes that healing begins with congruence: the courage to align who we are on the inside with how we show up in the world. Her passion lies in helping individuals reconnect with their most authentic selves after years of survival, masking, or self-doubt. She views congruence not merely as a therapeutic concept, but as the essence of transformation: the point where self-awareness meets acceptance, and true healing begins.
Her therapeutic approach is rooted in authenticity and presence, drawing from Person-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), inner child work, and attachment-based approaches. Through this integrative lens, Christelle helps clients uncover the emotional roots of their behaviors, rebuild self-trust, and learn to regulate their emotions with compassion and intention.
In session, Christelle shows up as her real self: grounded and transparent, so that her clients feel safe to do the same. She creates a space that balances emotional depth with practical skill-building, empowering individuals to understand their attachment patterns, strengthen coping abilities, and move toward lasting, meaningful change. By choosing to work with Christelle, you can feel confident that you are receiving care that is both heart-centered and clinically informed.
Education & Professional Development:
Christelle earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Florida Atlantic University, and later obtained her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lynn University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude.
She furthered her professional development through international training at Dublin City University (DCU), completing the 56th Annual Rudolf Dreikurs Summer School and Institute, organized by the International Committee for Adlerian Summer Schools and Institute (ICASSI), where she obtained certifications in Strength Based Couples Therapy, Vision to Reality-Making a Difference Through Community Development, and Adlerian Approach to Intimacy and Sexuality.
This advanced training deepened her understanding of human motivation, belonging, and purpose: principles that continue to shape her person-centered and strength-based approach to therapy.
Beyond the Therapy Room
When she’s not immersed in her clinical work, Christelle enjoys kickboxing, weightlifting, journaling, traveling, and watching UFC. She finds peace and inspiration in natural landscapes, where she feels most connected to herself and the world around her. Traveling allows her to embrace new cultures, cuisines, perspectives, and experiences that continually expand her empathy and enrich her work with clients.