THE OLSON
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY CLINIC

“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” - Mary Oliver 

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This question sits at the heart of Chris's therapeutic practice. As a student therapist, Chris is committed to helping individuals, couples and families navigate life's challenges, discover their strengths, heal from difficult experiences and create meaningful change. She believes that therapy is not about fixing people but about creating space for reflection, growth and new possibilities. Her approach is grounded in the belief that people are the experts on their own lives and that lasting change emerges through collaboration, curiosity and authentic conversation. 

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Chris strives to provide a warm, supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, respected, and understood. She views therapy as a partnership and works alongside clients to explore challenges, uncover strengths and identify practical steps toward their goals. Drawing from collaborative and systemic perspectives, she recognizes that personal struggles often exist within larger relational, cultural and societal contexts. Whether clients are facing relationship concerns, life transitions, family challenges or questions of identity and purpose, Chris seeks to help them make sense of their experiences and move toward the life they want to create. 

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Chris earned her bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University and brings more than a decade of experience as a preschool teacher. Her background working with children and families fostered a deep appreciation for individual differences, human development, resilience and the powerful impact relationships have on well-being. She is also the mother of four adult children which continues to shape her understanding of family life, relationships, change and personal growth. 

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Outside of her clinical work and graduate studies, Chris enjoys spending time with family and friends, walking her dogs, practicing yoga, reading and spending time outside. She considers it a privilege to sit with clients as they explore their stories, discover new possibilities and pursue lives that feel authentic, meaningful and fulfilling.