About Dr. Kristin Russell
Dr. Kristin Russell, R.Psych.
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist dedicated to providing compassionate, expert, and non-judgmental care. I approach every client with empathy and respect, creating a safe space for understanding and growth.
My practice is guided by a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and integrity. Delivering evidence-based care, I work closely with clients and other professionals while maintaining the highest ethical standards.
Training & Experience
My education, clinical training, and professional experience span over 15 years and include extensive work in both clinical and forensic settings. This includes assessment, treatment, supervision, and court‑related psychological and risk evaluations across a range of populations.
I completed a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology (2016) from the University of Calgary.
I completed a pre-doctoral clinical psychology residency in the Calgary Clinical Psychology Residency Program, training in forensic and addictions settings where I provided individual and group therapy, conducted psychological and risk assessments, and co-supervised trainees.
Over the past 15 years, I have acquired comprehensive experience in assessment, treatment, and teaching across adolescent and adult populations. My clinical practice has included forensic interventions inclusive of specialized sexual offense–specific interventions and anger management as well as evidence-based treatments for mood, anxiety, personality, trauma, and substance use disorders. I have served clients in correctional, outpatient, inpatient, and youth forensic settings. I have conducted psychological and risk assessments for general, violent, and sexual offending, including court-ordered, pre-sentence, parole board, and risk-to-community evaluations for government agencies in Alberta and British Columbia. I have also been involved in the provision of clinical supervision and consultation to trainees and colleagues.
My Approach to Treatment
My approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and integrates additional evidence‑based modalities to meet the individual needs of each client. Treatment and assessment are collaborative, structured, and tailored to support meaningful and practical outcomes.
My practice integrates a strong foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with additional therapeutic approaches. This includes third-wave therapies, mindfulness, interpersonal techniques, motivational interviewing, schema therapy, and exposure and response prevention, ensuring treatment is tailored to each individual's needs.
I approach every assessment with rigour, objectivity, and care. I conceptualize the assessment process as an opportunity to develop a thorough and nuanced understanding of the individual. Findings are always interpreted within the context of an individual's full history, strengths, and circumstances, and are communicated in a clear, accessible, and respectful manner.
I believe that therapy and assessment are most effective when built on a foundation of trust, empathy, and a thorough understanding of an individual's history, experiences, and unique challenges. During initial sessions, I gather a comprehensive personal, psychological, and, when relevant, forensic history to guide either assessment or treatment. Together, we develop a collaborative plan tailored to your goals, whether it involves therapy, specialized interventions, or risk and psychological assessments.
Academic & Professional Involvement
In addition to my clinical work, I remain actively involved in teaching, supervision, and professional development within the field of psychology. Ongoing academic and professional engagement supports ethical, informed, and current clinical and forensic practice.
I regularly teach university courses in Clinical Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Psychopathology, and Abnormal Psychology at the University of Calgary and St. Mary's University. I enjoy working with students to provide both academic guidance and practical insight into the field of psychology and forensic psychology.
I am currently licensed as a Clinical Psychologist with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (#2929) and registered as a Clinical Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists (#4546). I am an active member of the British Columbia Psychological Association, the Psychologists Association of Alberta, and the Canadian Psychological Association. I also hold clinical membership with the Association for the Treatment and Prevention of Sexual Abuse and am a member of the International Association of Forensic Mental Health Services.
Working Together
Effective assessment and treatment are grounded in trust, empathy, and a thorough understanding of each individual’s experiences and challenges. My role is to provide a respectful, non‑judgmental space where clients feel supported and actively involved in the process.
I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental, and respectful environment where clients feel heard and supported, creating the space for insight, growth, and meaningful change.
During initial sessions, I gather a comprehensive personal, psychological, and, when relevant, forensic history to guide either assessment or treatment. Together, we develop a collaborative plan tailored to your goals, whether it involves therapy, specialized interventions, or risk and psychological assessments.
Treatment and assessment are not one-size-fits-all processes. Throughout our work together, I regularly review progress, revisit goals, and adjust our approach as needed. Your feedback is an essential part of this process, and I am committed to ensuring that care remains responsive, relevant, and meaningful at every stage of our work together.