Chris Konopa, MA, AMFT

Chris Konopa is a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Life Coach working under the direct supervision of Dr. Thomas Lucking. Chris earned his B.A. in Organizational Leadership from Chapman University and his M.A. in Holistic Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University. Chris also earned an Academic Certificate in Trauma Studies during his time at JFK. Chris’ approach to therapy and coaching is unique to the individual he is working with. Chris enjoys integrating the following therapeutic approaches: Solution Focused, Somatic, Attachment Based, Internal Family Systems and Strength Based Therapy. Chris attempts to incorporate Mindfulness and the healing elements of Nature into his sessions whenever possible. Chris is deeply interested in Polyvagal Theory, Adverse Childhood Experiences and Meditation.

Chris has a special interest in working with people who carry the diagnosis of ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and those on the Autism spectrum. In this area he works under the supervision of Dr. Thomas Lucking, PhD who is a published author, speaker, and expert in the field of Autism and Neurodiversity. Chris supports children, teenagers, and adults in developing organizational skills, social skills and emotional intelligence. He uses Dr Lucking’s book and Daniel Goleman’s research on Emotional Intelligence to support people on their path towards successful social interactions. Supporting families in all forms with relational therapy, reunification, and conflict resolution is also central to Chris’ work. He uses a number of modalities and resources in this work including Marshall Rosenberg’s Nonviolent Communication and Dr. Lucking’s ISM Communication.

Chris also has a special interest working with Neurodiverse couples. Chris supports NT partners who are struggling with OTRS (Ongoing Traumatic Relationship Syndrome). He uses the Island of Shared meaning model that Dr. Lucking created to support ND relationships and partners to bridge the Neurodiverse gap that these relationships struggle with.

Prior to becoming a Psychotherapist, Chris discovered his passion for assisting others while serving in the United States Coast Guard. During his career in the Coast Guard, Chris gained experience in Law Enforcement and Search and Rescue while serving throughout the United States. Chris has had the pleasure of working alongside many different Law Enforcement Departments, Federal Agencies and fellow branches of the Military. As a Veteran, Chris is passionate about continuing to serve those who have served.

Specialties & Practice Areas 

• Addiction
• ADHD
• Anxiety
• Attachment and Relational issues
• Autism Spectrum
• Communication Skill Building
• Complex Trauma
• Childhood Trauma
• Depression
• Family Therapy including child-parent reunification
• PTSD
• Peace Officers and First Responders.

Locations: Telehealth, Los Gatos, Santa Cruz

Chris is a member of Therapy InMotion