Kelly Young

Hi! I’m Kelly. I have openings for couples counseling or individual therapy in person or online in Utah. I can meet with couples and individuals via telehealth in Washington.


Specialties

  • Couples Counseling

  • OCD/ Scrupulosity

  • Depression

  • Anxiety

  • Trauma


Education

I earned my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Utah State University. During my master’s program I completed a thesis, as well as a program long project where I analyzed how therapeutic change occurs. Both were difficult, yet rewarding, ventures. Previous to pursuing a master’s degree, I graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor’s degree in public health and a minor in family studies.


Training & Experience

While at Utah State, I worked at the student health center providing therapy for college students. I also worked with newly married and premarital clients at USU’s MFT clinic. My favorite age group to work with is young adults because it is such a fun, challenging, and formative time in life! I am also certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, a trauma informed model (similar to EMDR). 

During my undergraduate education, I discovered that public health had a lot of ways to help communities and individuals but often skipped over families and accompanying issues such as relationship difficulties and mental health. I decided that the best way I could contribute to public health was by helping people improve their mental health and strengthen their family relationships. I have loved getting to know so many different people and help them along their journey in life.

I am Gottman Level I & II certified (specialized training for couples counseling). Currently, I enjoy receiving supervision from Bonnie Young (no, we’re not related-bummer!). She is an OCD expert and I love getting to learn from her knowledge and skill set!


Research & Writing

As part of my master’s thesis, I designed and conducted a qualitative research study that looked at large age gaps in sibling relationships. I successfully defended my thesis in May of 2023 and have since presented and published my research. The title of my thesis is “The Caboose by a Longshot: Impact of Large Age Gaps on Youngest Siblings and can be found here: https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1042&context=etd2023 

During my time as an undergraduate, I participated in various research projects, my favorite being Project M.E.D.I.A, where we studied the effects of media on development from infancy to adulthood under the direction of Dr. Sarah Coyne.


On a more personal note…

I grew up as a true “caboose” and am the youngest of four with an 8 year age gap between me and my next sibling. I’ve spent a lot of time studying family dynamics (anecdotally and scientifically) and this has inspired my career path. I’ve seen and experienced both turbulent and peaceful family relations. I know what it’s like to both be an only child and have siblings. I know the loneliness that comes from trying to figure out how to fit into your own family. As someone who’s been there, I can help you navigate your own difficult family relationships too.

I spent most of my growing up years in Indiana and am a true midwesterner. I am married to my amazing husband and we have the most adorable baby girl. We’re total foodies and like to try new restaurants, and go to the movies. In my free time I like to craft, bake, and write.

I believe therapy is a collaborative process and I’m here to help you set goals and become the best version of yourself. I believe that you’re stronger than you realize and together we can work to uncover and ignite your innate strengths. I can’t wait to meet you!