Therapy with Kristen Callaway: Learn about me!

Hi, I’m Kristen! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and owner of Seeking Peace Counseling PLLC. I help adults heal from trauma, anxiety, and the lasting effects of painful or chaotic pasts. Whether you’re a first responder, someone who never had the chance to feel safe as a child, or someone trying to let go of survival mode—I want you to know that healing is possible. And you don’t have to do it alone.

My work is rooted in the belief that every person is worthy of peace, dignity, and compassion. Therapy with me is relational, trauma-informed, and built on trust. I’ll never expect you to earn your right to be here. If you've carried too much for too long, this is a place to finally set it down.

I’m a Colorado native turned Oklahoman (it’s been 12+ years, but I’m still trying to figure out why I moved to a place with tornadoes), and a wife and mom of 2. I’m a devoted fan of The Office (and Schitt’s Creek, Parks and Rec, and Brooklyn 99), my list of books to be read continues to grow (I’ll read them one day, right?!), and I love memes (both dark humor and dad jokes will get me laughing). I enjoy running, baking, and long slow walks down the aisles of Target with no kids.

What is it like to have me as your therapist? I bring my full, authentic self into each session, blending humor, sarcasm (because healing doesn’t always have to be serious), and a direct yet compassionate approach. I prioritize building trust, knowing that therapy techniques mean little without a strong, supportive relationship. If you love a good metaphor, you’re in luck—I have a knack for coming up with oddly fitting ones to make sense of what you're experiencing.

As an attachment-based EMDR Certified Therapist, I incorporate EMDR, parts work, emotion-focused therapy, and a nervous system-centered approach to help transform negative self-beliefs, increase emotional resilience, and support lasting healing.

I am the proud wife to a military veteran and law enforcement officer. I have a deep respect for those who protect and serve our communities and our country. Understandably, I have a deep passion for serving the communities I consider family. I have a personal understanding of the challenges that first responders and their families face. I’ve celebrated Christmas Day in a patrol car and by myself. I know far to well being mid sentence of a story, hearing dispatch key up and knowing the phone call has to quickly end. I know what the weight of the uniform does to families.

This is a space where you don’t have to censor your story, hold back you dark humor, or pretend your fine. I probably cuss more than you do in my regular life, so it won’t offend me. There is no call, no scene, no deployment that will be too shocking, too overwhelming for me - I’ve likely already heard something very similar. Whether you wear the uniform or love someone who does, I’m here to support the messy, complicated, and often silent parts of your experience—with respect, cultural competence, and absolutely no judgment.

Law Enforcement is always welcome to come in full uniform (gun and duty equipment included).

Areas of Focus

I have a passion for providing individual counseling to adults who have struggles related to:

First Responders, Forensic Experts & Criminal Investigators, and Military.

The demands of a high-stress career take a toll on mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. First responders, forensic experts, criminal investigators, and military personnel often experience chronic stress, exposure to traumatic events, and emotional burnout, yet feel pressure to stay strong and keep going. Therapy offers a space to process what you've been carrying—whether it's job-related trauma, difficulty shutting off hypervigilance, or the emotional strain of the work you do. I help professionals in these fields develop tools for stress management, emotional regulation, and reclaiming a sense of self beyond the job. Learn more here

First Responder Spouses

I know what it’s like to have a phone call cut short because an emergency call came out (you’ve probably just learned to stop talking when you hear certain tones in the background, same here). To have holidays be on some random day, or to celebrate Christmas in a parking lot with coffee and cars parked together. To have your kids ask where mom/dad is, and be sad that something important is being missed by their hero. I love and believe the saying “we wear the weight of their badge on our heart.” Being in a relationship with a first responder comes with unique challenges—feeling disconnected, managing home life alone, or carrying the emotional weight of your partner’s job. You may struggle with feeling unseen or like your needs take a backseat to their demanding career. I provide support for spouses to navigate the complexities of their relationship, set healthy boundaries, and find a strong sense of self amidst the challenges. Learn more here

Trauma & PTSD

Trauma isn’t just something that happened in the past—it can continue to shape your thoughts, emotions, and body responses long after the event is over. This includes experiences of childhood sexual abuse, which can leave lasting emotional and psychological impacts. I use EMDR, parts work, and somatic approaches to help clients process trauma safely, reduce emotional distress, and develop a greater sense of stability. Read more here

Childhood Trauma & Dysfunctional Family Dynamics

Early experiences shape how we relate to ourselves and others. If you grew up in an environment where love felt conditional, emotions were dismissed, or you had to take on too much responsibility too soon, therapy can help you break free from these patterns, build self-worth, and create healthier relationships. Read more here

Anxiety, Social Anxiety & Panic

If your mind is constantly racing—scanning for danger, replaying past conversations, or bracing for the worst—it’s exhausting. Anxiety, social anxiety, and panic often go hand in hand, making everyday situations feel overwhelming. You might second-guess your words, avoid social settings, or live in fear of the next panic attack. These patterns are often fueled by a need for control, fear of failure, or a deep desire to avoid discomfort. Therapy can help you recognize triggers, calm your nervous system, and break free from these cycles so you can step out of survival mode and into a life of greater confidence, peace, and self-trust. Read about it here

If you don’t feel like your struggles fit within this list, but but something about me and my work resonates with you, please send me a message! I enjoy helping people with all kinds of struggles find hope and healing

How I Help

Healing isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why I integrate evidence-based approaches to meet you where you are.

Processing Trauma & Releasing Its Hold on You

If the past feels like it still has a hold on you, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they don’t feel as intense or intrusive. Trauma can leave the brain stuck in survival mode, making it hard to feel safe, trust others, or react with flexibility. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (like guided eye movements or tapping) to activate the brain’s natural healing process, similar to how REM sleep helps us process daily experiences. Over time, distressing memories lose their emotional intensity, allowing you to respond to life from the present rather than being pulled back into the past. Learn more about EMDR here.

But trauma isn’t just something we remember—it’s something we feel in our bodies. That’s why I use somatic approaches grounded in Polyvagal Theory to help regulate the nervous system. If you’re always on high alert, feeling disconnected, or stuck in patterns of avoidance, we use breathwork, grounding exercises, movement, and nervous system education to shift out of survival mode and into a state where healing can happen.

Shifting Thought Patterns & Breaking Old Cycles

When anxiety, self-criticism, or perfectionism feel like they’re running the show, it can be overwhelming. I work with clients to shift unhelpful thought patterns, build psychological flexibility, and move toward values-based living. Therapy is not just about changing thoughts—it’s about learning how to move forward even when difficult emotions show up.

Regulating Emotions & Strengthening Boundaries

If setting boundaries, managing emotions, or navigating relationships feels overwhelming, I incorporate approaches that teach practical, real-world tools for self-regulation. These skills help with emotion management, distress tolerance, and creating healthier relationships, making it especially helpful for those who struggle with people-pleasing or emotional burnout.

Understanding & Healing Inner Conflicts

For those who feel like different parts of themselves are in conflict—one part wants to set boundaries, but another fears rejection—Parts Work helps bring clarity and healing by exploring inner dynamics with compassion, fostering self-acceptance and integration. Some parts may be protective, stepping in to keep you safe, while others may hold pain, fear, or shame from past wounds. Through this work, we explore these inner dynamics with compassion, helping you understand, integrate, and heal the parts that have been carrying too much for too long.

The Goal? Moving from Survival to Peace

Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you—it’s about helping you reconnect with yourself, heal from the past, and build a life that feels more peaceful and fulfilling. Whether it’s releasing the weight of trauma, calming an overactive mind, or learning to set boundaries without guilt, my goal is to help you move from just getting through the day to truly living. Together, we’ll create a space where you can process what’s been holding you back and develop the tools to move forward with more confidence, clarity, and self-trust.

My Values:

Here’s what I believe about how healing actually happens.

Compassion

Healing happens in a space of safety and understanding. I meet each client with warmth, patience, and a nonjudgmental approach. Whether you’re sharing your deepest pain or struggling to put words to your experience, you deserve to be heard and supported.

Trauma Informed Care

Trauma changes how we see ourselves and the world. I tailor therapy with an awareness of how trauma impacts the brain, body, and emotions, creating a space where you feel safe, empowered, and in control of your healing process.

Authenticity

I believe therapy should be real, honest, and free of pretense. You won’t get a detached, clinical therapist—I show up as a genuine human, creating a space where you can do the same.

Empowerment

You are not broken, and you are not powerless. I help clients recognize their inner strength, develop tools for resilience, and take control of their healing journey. Small steps forward matter, and I support you in finding your path.

Respect for Individual Journeys

Healing looks different for everyone. There is no “right way” to process trauma, set boundaries, or grow. I honor your unique experiences and tailor therapy to your needs, allowing you to move at your own pace.

Commitment to Growth

Therapy isn’t just about understanding the past—it’s about creating a different future. I help clients move beyond awareness into action, making meaningful changes that lead to long-term healing.

Education and Credentials

  • An EMDRIA Certified Therapist™ has engaged in at least 20 hours of consultation with an EMDRIA Approved Consultant™ for EMDR and has practiced their skills with at least 25 different clients in at least 50 EMDR sessions. An EMDRIA Certified Therapist™ has voluntarily met standards of consultation, clinical practice, and continuing education to provide EMDR therapy. An EMDRIA Certified Therapist™ is committed to fulfill ethical standards and is engaged in continuing education. To maintain this certification, a therapist must continue to satisfy the EMDRIA requirement including completion of continuing education requirements and adherence to ethical standards. EMDRIA

  • Obtained Certified First Responder Counselor certification through Academy Hour

    Opened Seeking Peace Counseling in 2020

  • Obtained my clinical license (meaning I can practice independently) in 2019, after a 2 year candidacy period, including 1000 hours of clinical therapy, and over 150 hours of clinical supervision while working at a non-profit counseling center.

    Completed EMDR Basic Training through EMDR Consulting in 2019

  • Oklahoma Baptist University

    Completed a 500 hour clinical practicum during my graduate program, receiving weekly clinical supervision on campus and at my internship site, a nonprofit counseling center.

  • Oklahoma Christian University