Meet Our Team
As the founder of Serenity Counseling and Wellness, my vision is rooted in lived experience. Growing up as a person of color, I know what it feels like to move through spaces where you are not fully seen or understood. That experience shaped my commitment to creating care that is affirming, accessible, and grounded in genuine connection. Serenity was created to be a place where clients never have to question whether they belong. I am deeply proud to work alongside an exceptional team of clinicians who share this commitment and bring compassion, skill, and authenticity into their work every day. Together, we strive to create a space where healing feels possible and support feels genuine.

Kristen Christensen (She/Her)
LCSW | Owner


Kristen Christensen, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Owner
​Location: Skokie and Palatine
I believe therapy should be a safe and supportive space where you can explore your emotions and experiences without fear of judgment. In our work together, you will have the opportunity to process what you have been through, make sense of your story, and discover new ways to move forward. My goal is to provide a calm and welcoming environment that encourages healing while also allowing space for lightness and connection. I see therapy as a journey we take together, and I believe that walking side by side through this process is the key to lasting growth and healing.

I aim to create a space where healing feels possible and sustainable. Whether you're looking for support for yourself or your child, I’m here to walk alongside you—gently challenging when necessary, always focusing on building resilience and self-awareness.

I aim to provide a safe, nonjudgemental, and supportive space where we can collaborate openly and honestly in an effort to help you reach your goals. Life can feel overwhelming and exhausting. How wonderful that you have taken the courageous step of finding meaningful and intentional ways of achieving your goals. I believe in you, and I'm here to help you.

I believe that therapy is a collaborative process that honors the individual as a whole within a safe, nonjudgmental space. My approach is person-centered, focusing on each client’s unique experiences and empowering them to strive toward their goals. I integrate mindfulness, strength identification, and artmaking into my therapeutic practice to help clients navigate their journeys. Through artistic expression, I guide clients in finding their voice to convey these complex thoughts and feelings.

I believe that regardless of the reason for seeking therapy, there is always a place for you in my office. Therapy works best with people who are motivated to achieve a change, as do I.

Skyler Kociuba, LCPC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Location: Skokie and Palatine
I believe therapy should feel supportive, human, and tailored to you—not one-size-fits-all. My approach is grounded in person-centered therapy, meaning I meet you where you are and work collaboratively at your pace. I also draw from CBT, DBT, and parts work to help you better understand your thoughts, emotions, and inner experiences while building practical, real-life skills.

I want to see the world as you see it, witness what you have done to survive, and help you remove the obstacles blocking your path toward growth and freedom. Who you are and how you behave are shaped by your experiences, thoughts, and beliefs.

Christine Swanson, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Location: Skokie and Palatine
I believe that every person deserves care that honors their individuality, lived experiences, and goals for healing. I approach my work with compassion, curiosity, and a deep commitment to creating a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their mental health.

I believe that you are the expert of your own experiences, and regardless of what those experiences are, there is a doorway to walk through to understand your inner and outer world better. I believe change can happen on many levels, in how you see yourself, how you relate to others, and your general outlook on life. It would be a privilege for me to walk alongside you on your journey of growth.

I believe that even the littlest of moments can be deeply meaningful, that mistakes are sometimes the best way to learn, and that we have the power to create our own destinies. It is my belief that change happens at the level of movement, making therapy an active, conscious process. As a therapist, I view my role as that of a co-pilot. Together, we will navigate your therapeutic journey in a way that is empowering and right for you.

I believe that therapy should be a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported as you navigate life’s challenges. For many people, it can be hard to take the first step toward reaching out, and I want you to know that you don’t have to do it alone. In our work together, I strive to create an environment where you can show up exactly as you are without judgment. My role is to walk alongside you, offering guidance, compassion, and practical tools to help you move through difficulties and build a life that feels more balanced and fulfilling.

Yana Wallk
Practice Manager
As the Practice Manager at Serenity Counseling and Wellness, I’m dedicated to supporting both our clients and our team to ensure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. My role includes overseeing day-to-day operations, billing and insurance processes, and administrative support so that our clinicians can focus on providing high-quality care and our clients can feel supported at every step of their experience with us. I strive to make systems feel clear, accessible, and as stress-free as possible, whether that means helping with insurance questions, billing concerns, or general practice-related needs. My goal is to be a reliable point of support and a helpful resource throughout your time with our practice. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my husband and our beloved cats. I also love crocheting, which allows me to relax and channel my creativity into meaningful projects. I look forward to supporting you and helping make your experience with Serenity Counseling and Wellness a positive one.

Kimberly Campo, MA
Advanced Clinical Intern
Location: Skokie and Palatine
As the Intake Coordinator at Serenity Counseling and Wellness, I’m here to ensure your experience starts with care and compassion. From answering your questions to matching you with the right therapist, my goal is to make the intake process as smooth and welcoming as possible.
I’m currently in graduate school, pursuing my master’s degree in counseling, and I’m passionate about supporting individuals as they take steps toward healing and growth.
In my spare time, I love to travel and hang out with my friends, finding balance and joy in exploring new places and creating memories with the people I care about most.
I look forward to connecting with you and helping you get started on your journey toward wellness!
