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Kristin Malaer
Kristin Malaer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor (LCSW-S) with extensive experience in supporting patients with complex medical conditions—especially those living with heart failure, LVAD support, and transplant journeys. Her approach is trauma-informed, patient-centered, and grounded in compassion.
Role at the Foundation
As the Foundation’s Social Worker and Behavioral Health Consultant, Kristin plays a vital role in improving mental health outcomes for individuals and families impacted by heart failure—particularly in rural and underserved communities.
She focuses on:
Providing emotional support and resilience tools
Ensuring psychosocial care across all phases of treatment
Empowering patients and families to navigate diagnosis and transitions with confidence
Focus on Health Equity
Kristin is deeply committed to health equity and accessibility. Her work ensures that the Foundation not only delivers access to medical care but also responds to the emotional and psychological toll that heart failure places on patients and their loved ones.
Thought Leadership & Impact
Kristin has presented nationally on the mental health impact of advanced therapies, contributing to integrative care models that address the whole person—not just the disease.
At the Foundation, she helps lead the development of:
Psychoeducational resources
Support tools for patients and caregivers
Compassionate care protocols to prevent isolation and emotional distress during every stage of the heart failure journey
