Dear Committee,
Kristen embodies the highest standards of the ESFT model, making her an exceptional nominee for the MLG Award. In her work, she consistently fosters strong, collaborative partnerships with families, honoring their cultural identities, strengths, and unique narratives. Kristen approaches every interaction with deep empathy and curiosity, creating safe, trusting spaces where caregivers and youth feel genuinely seen, heard, and supported. Her ability to join with families in meaningful and authentic ways allows her to build strong therapeutic relationships that promote hope, connection, and lasting change.
Kristen demonstrates a remarkable ability to maintain a systemic perspective, helping families understand patterns and interactions through a relational and trauma-informed lens. She thoughtfully supports caregivers in recognizing their own strengths and leadership within the family system, while also helping youth feel valued and understood. Her calm and grounded presence during moments of crisis allows families to feel supported even in the midst of chaos, creating opportunities for growth and healing rather than remaining stuck in distress.
Her skillful use of trauma-informed, family-centered interventions strengthens protective factors, enhances caregiver capacity, and empowers families to achieve meaningful and sustainable change. Kristen is also deeply committed to her own professional growth and consistently engages in supervision, reflection, and collaboration to strengthen her clinical practice. Her unwavering dedication, clinical insight, and commitment to relational healing stand out in every service she provides, reflecting the true spirit of the ESFT model. She is profoundly deserving of this recognition.
Sincerely,
Kristie Hartzel, Program Director, RHA
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