About Kristen Thomas

Playful Minds PLLC offers you or your child a dedicated mental health therapist with a passion for using play therapy to make a difference in the lives of children and families.

My approach focuses on creating a safe and nurturing environment where children can express themselves through play and exploration. I believe in the power of play as a means of communication and healing. For adults, I offer a supportive and nonjudgmental space to explore emotions, build insight, and work through life’s challenges. Whether through talk therapy or creative modalities, I tailor the process to meet each individual’s unique needs and goals.

My Credentials

I earned my master's degree in Counseling from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. Soon after graduating, I relocated to Wyoming and began my career as a mental health clinician at Southwest Counseling Services. I also obtained my Licensed Professional Counselor certification and started working as a school counselor in a K-12 Wyoming school. After four years in Wyoming, I moved to Utah and served as a middle school counselor at Ecker Hill Middle School. In 2022, I recognized a growing need for mental health services and decided to obtain my Clinical Mental Health Counselor license once more. Currently, I am independently licensed in the State of Utah and as a Telehealth Counselor in the State of Idaho and have been working at Millcreek Counseling and Plae Therapy to enhance my skills. In 2025, I took the exciting step of launching my own private practice. I’m thrilled about this new chapter and grateful to have you along for the journey.

I live in Salt Lake City with my husband and children. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, snowboarding, watching sports, playing softball, traveling, crafting, and reading.

Specialized Training

The Association for Play Therapy offers a Registered Play Therapist credential. This credential is extensive, requiring 150 hours of specialized training and 350 hours of supervised experience by a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. These are broken down into 3 phases and I am currently in the middle of Phase 2.

Let Me Support You