Dr. Kristi Hottenstein, LPC, LPCC

Dr. Kristi Hottenstein brings two decades of counseling experience to her practice in Michigan. She holds a doctorate in higher education administration and a master’s in counseling, and she is credentialed as an LPC and LPCC. Kristi is the owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC and has been active with the Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association, including a board appointment in 2021.

She helps people facing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy challenges, and issues like grief, addiction, and compassion fatigue. She also supports clients dealing with ADHD, career transitions, body image, and the impact of chronic illness. Sessions are shaped around each person rather than a one-size-fits-all plan.

Her style is practical and person-centered. She uses everyday conversation to build self-awareness and encourages people to accept responsibility for the parts of life they can influence. Techniques draw from approaches such as cognitive behavioral work, acceptance and commitment ideas, and client-centered listening.

Kristi often helps people sort through communication problems, commitment worries, abandonment and attachment concerns, or the strain of parenting and blended family dynamics. She also offers college selection coaching alongside counseling for individuals, couples, and teens.

People who value a collaborative, thoughtful approach may find her helpful. The focus is on small, manageable steps and clearer personal direction rather than quick fixes.

How therapeutic approaches support online work

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on helping people notice difficult thoughts and feelings and choose actions that match their values. It can help when life changes, anxiety, or low motivation get in the way of what matters most. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at the connection between thoughts, feelings, and actions and teaches practical skills to change unhelpful patterns. It is often useful for anxiety, depression, and stress. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes listening and understanding from the therapist so clients feel heard and can explore their own solutions at their own pace.

Finding the right approach is part of therapy. The therapist will work together with each person to choose methods that fit their goals and preferences. That means trying techniques, checking what helps, and adjusting the plan over time so it matches real-life needs.

The biography does not list specific online session formats, so confirm current options before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. It also lets people use approaches like CBT worksheets, ACT exercises, and supportive conversations without rearranging a whole day, helping therapy fit into everyday life.