Dr. Krystal K. Turner is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate and a National Certified Counselor, working under the supervision of Dr. Dee C. Ray, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, RPT-S. She holds a doctoral degree in counseling from the University of North Texas, where she received specialized training in counseling across the lifespan. This includes play therapy for young children, activity play therapy for preteens, and expressive arts and talk therapy for teens, adults, and families. Additionally, Krystal has received training in assessments and Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT), a model designed to help parents strengthen their relationships with their children. 

Krystal has a diverse professional background. She previously served as the School Outreach Coordinator for the Center for Play Therapy, where she matched children in Title I schools with graduate-level play therapists. She also worked as a clinician at two university-based clinics, providing free or reduced therapy to the community. Currently, Krystal is a professor at the University of North Texas, where she teaches graduate students counseling techniques, including approaches to therapy, diversity considerations, and play therapy principles. 

In her clinical practice and research, Krystal specializes in identity development and exploration from a multicultural perspective, working with children in play therapy as well as clients across the lifespan. She is also particularly interested in trauma, life transitions, and enhancing healthy connections within relationships. Outside of her professional work, Krystal enjoys spending time with close friends, relaxing on lazy Sundays with her two dogs while binge-watching Golden Girls, and reading a good book.

Krystal's Counseling Approach

I believe that when individuals feel truly and unconditionally accepted within a relationship, they are able to show up as their authentic selves. Such relationships foster an environment where each person can reflect on their thoughts, choices, and emotions without fear of judgment or bias. It is within this space of acceptance that we are empowered to make informed decisions about which of our experiences and patterns have supported or hindered our growth. As a therapist, my goal is to walk alongside each client with empathy, genuineness, and a nonjudgmental attitude. I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can engage in meaningful self-reflection, ultimately increasing their trust in their own innate ability to move toward personal growth.