About

Dr. Kristi Hottenstein is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) who supports people navigating both challenging seasons and meaningful new chapters. Licensed as a professional counselor in Michigan since 2009, she brings 20 years of experience and a steady, thoughtful presence to the counseling process.

She is the practitioner and owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, and is a member of the Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association, where she was appointed to the association’s board in 2021. Dr. Hottenstein holds a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Toledo, a master’s degree in Counseling from the University of La Verne, and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Alma College.

Dr. Hottenstein provides counseling for individuals, couples, and teens, and also offers college selection coaching. Her work is grounded in a holistic perspective, shaped by the belief that no two people are the same and that therapy should reflect each person’s unique needs and goals. She integrates a range of counseling methods to strengthen self-awareness and encourage clients to take ownership of their personal journey, with the aim of helping them respond to life’s situations with greater understanding and intention.
Location:
Michigan, United States
Years Experience:
20
Gender:
Female
Languages Spoken:
English
Therapist of Color:
No
Communication Options:
Phone • Video • Live Chat • Messaging

Specialties

Primary area of focus:Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Self esteem, Depression
Other areas of experience: Addictions, LGBT, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, Coping with life changes, Coaching, Compassion fatigue, ADHD, Abandonment, Antisocial personality, Attachment issues, Avoidant personality, Blended family issues, Body image, Cancer, Codependency, Commitment issues, Communication problems, Control issues, Dependent personality, Dissociation, Divorce and separation, Eating and food-related issues, Family of origin issues, Fatherhood issues, Fertility issues, First responder issues, Forgiveness, Hoarding, Immigration issues, Impulsivity, Infidelity, Isolation / loneliness, Jealousy, Life purpose, Midlife crisis, Narcissism, Phobias, Postpartum depression, Post-traumatic stress, Self-harm, Self-love, Sexual assault and abuse, Workplace issues, Young adult issues
Therapeutic approach:Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Existential Therapy, Gottman Method, Mindfulness Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems

Credentials & Verification

  • Credentials: MI LPC 6401010570, CA LPCC 11514
  • NPI Number: 1225604028
  • License: LPC (Michigan), LPC (Texas), LPC (Arizona), LPCC (California), LPC (New Jersey), LPC (Virginia)

Therapeutic approaches that translate well to online care

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps clients notice difficult thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them, while building momentum toward actions that reflect personal values. It can be especially useful when stress, anxiety, or life transitions make it hard to feel grounded.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying patterns in thoughts and behaviors and practicing new responses that support day-to-day functioning. It is often used to strengthen coping skills, improve problem-solving, and create practical steps forward when emotions feel overwhelming.

Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore what matters most to them and move at a pace that feels right. This approach can be helpful for self-esteem concerns, relationship stress, and clarifying goals.

Finding the right approach is part of the process. Dr. Kristi Hottenstein works collaboratively with clients to understand their needs, goals, and preferences, then tailors the work to fit the individual rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all method.

Online therapy offers flexible ways to connect, including video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. These options can make it easier to stay consistent, fit sessions into a busy schedule, and access support from wherever is most convenient.

How much experience does Dr. Kristi Hottenstein have?

Dr. Kristi Hottenstein has 20 years of experience.

Is Dr. Kristi Hottenstein a licensed therapist?

Yes. Dr. Kristi Hottenstein holds the credentials LPC and LPCC. She is licensed in Michigan as an LPC (MI LPC 6401010570) and in California as an LPCC (CA LPCC 11514).

In which languages does Dr. Kristi Hottenstein provide therapy?

She provides therapy in English.

Where is Dr. Kristi Hottenstein located?

Dr. Kristi Hottenstein is located in Michigan.

How can I work with Dr. Kristi Hottenstein as my therapist?

Sessions with Dr. Kristi Hottenstein are available through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, allowing clients to choose the format that best fits their needs and schedule.

Does Dr. Kristi Hottenstein work with international clients?

No. Dr. Kristi Hottenstein does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Dr. Kristi Hottenstein cost?

The cost of therapy can vary based on factors such as your location and the therapist’s availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the “Start Therapy” button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the “Start Therapy” button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.