Kristyn Tanaka-Roche, LMFT 82006, ATR 16-133
Hi, I’m Kristyn
LMFT #82006 & Registered Art Therapist
Finding the right therapist for yourself or your child is a big step, and I’m so glad you’re here. At Pearl Child and Family Therapy, we’ve created a warm, beautiful space where you can feel safe, seen, and supported from the very first moment you walk through the door.
My Philosophy:
When new clients ask what I do, I like to explain it this way: Just like you have a coach for sports or a teacher for school, I am a professional teacher of feelings. I help children and adults figure out why they are having "big" or bothersome feelings and provide the tools to navigate them. I love learning about my clients' unique interests—whether it’s a specific hobby, a sport, or a favorite story—so I can tap into those passions to help them process their emotions in a way that feels natural and engaging.
Creative Tools for Healing
As an Art Therapist, I maintain a large variety of supplies because I believe the right medium can unlock new ways of healing. I use my knowledge of these materials to help clients express what words sometimes cannot. In our sessions, we might use:
Building & Sculpting: Creating with wood, popsicle sticks, or clay to find structure and strength.
Safe Spaces: Using found objects to build miniature "homes" or safe spaces that represent internal security.
Visual Arts: Drawing, painting, and mixed media to give color and shape to complex emotions.
Sensory Play: Using materials like slime or sand to provide comfort; for example, the rhythmic squeezing and stretching of slime can be incredibly grounding when discussing "uncomfortable" topics.
Imagination: Utilizing the dollhouse, sandtray, puppets, and role-play to act out experiences and work through feelings in a safe, playful environment.
Specializations: EMDR & Super Resourcing
I specialize in EMDR and Super Resourcing for both children and adults. These approaches are highly effective for processing trauma, anxiety, depression, phobias, and ADHD.
My goal is to help clients connect to your their "internal resources," empowering them to become more autonomous in their ability to self-regulate, find calm, and establish a true sense of safety. I also frequently collaborate with other therapists to provide specialized EMDR/Super Resourcing support for their clients.
A Collaborative Partnership
I believe therapy works best as a team effort. I work closely with parents to help them understand how to best support their child and how to bring therapeutic practices into the rhythm of their own homes.
Outside the office: I am a mother to two amazing elementary school children and one tiny new puppy! My life is filled with the things I love: art, dance, martial arts, family, and the rewarding work I do every day.
Let’s Connect
I know the search for a therapist can be daunting, and I am here to make the process as smooth as possible. I offer a free 20-minute consultation for us to get a feel for whether we are a good fit.