About
A home design and renovation enthusiast, Kristen Mosier has worked on editorial teams and as a freelance writer for various home improvement and women’s health publications. She began writing for BobVila.com in the summer of 2020 and has covered topics ranging from her DIY projects and product reviews to shopping guides, news articles, and design pieces. Kristen’s second career as a psychotherapist gives her a unique perspective, allowing her to speak to the mental health and relational aspects of homeownership and remodeling.
Experience
Kristen began her writing career covering kitchen and bath design and renovation. She spent 6 years in the industry, serving as an editor both in print and online. Following that, Kristen broadened her content coverage at This Old House, where she served as an editor for the brand’s website.
In later years, she served as the executive editor of HealthyWomen.org, covering various topics in women’s health and wellness. As her interest grew in women’s health, she decided to embark on a second career path, becoming licensed as a marriage and family therapist. Currently, Kristen combines her skills and interests as both a therapist and a freelance writer. She keeps the mental health impact of homeownership at the forefront as she writes about renovation and design.
Education
Kristen attended the University of Scranton, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in communication with a focus on journalism and a minor in art history, graduating with her class’s award for excellence in journalism. Ten years later, she returned to school to complete a Master of Science in marriage and family therapy, which led to her becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist.
Highlights
- Specialties: Home improvement, homeownership, and mental health
- Education: Bachelor of Arts in communication and a Master of Science in marriage and family therapy from the University of Scranton
- Other work: HealthyWomen.org
Best DIY Advice
Kristen’s best DIY advice is to take your time when embarking on a renovation. After moving into a new home, it may be tempting to jump into a home renovation project, but Kristen recommends living in the space for a while to truly understand how your family utilizes each room and what changes would be most helpful. She’ll often take a year or more before deciding on a final design for a renovation. For instance, Kristen lived with a ’70s-style bar in her entryway for 2 years before tackling this mudroom renovation, and now the result is exactly what was needed to keep her household running smoothly.
