Crystal is a dedicated military spouse, military family advocate, and an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). With a depth of experience in social work, Crystal is currently pursuing her Doctorate of Social Work at the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work at the University of Southern California. Her work focuses on addressing social isolation, loneliness, and the impact on depression and suicidal thoughts.

Crystal’s commitment to social work and mental health is further fueled by her lifelong passion for gerontology. She has worked in a variety of aging settings, including long-term care, home caregiving, hospice, and palliative care, bringing both academic and practical expertise to her work. She earned her master’s degree from the Leonard Davis School of Gerontology at the University of Southern California, the largest and oldest school of its kind.

In 2024, Crystal was honored as a Pat Tillman Scholar, an award that supports military veterans and spouses committed to service, scholarship, and leadership. The scholarship enables her to continue her impactful work, honoring the legacy of Pat Tillman. The Pat Tillman Foundation was created in honor of Pat Tillman, a former NFL player who left his football career to serve in the U.S. Army after the attacks of September 11, 2001.

As CEO of Through The Kaleidoscope Lens Therapy & Consulting, Crystal provides online and in-person therapy across North Dakota, Hawaii, and California. She is also the founder of Strength In Service, a non-profit organization dedicated to delivering mental health support to military-affiliated individuals. The organization focuses on advocating for social connection and fostering a sense of belonging, while also empowering military spouses to advance in the social work profession. By building strong community networks, Strength In Service addresses the unique challenges faced by military families, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive.

Beyond her clinical practice, Crystal offers supervision to associates and interns, nurturing the next generation of social workers. She also contributes to the growth of the social work community through her role as the Region E Associate Director for NASW-CA, where she plays an active part in shaping the profession.

Crystal and her husband, a Navy servicemember with nearly three decades of active-duty service, are raising three creative and compassionate daughters. The family has lived around the world, from Sasebo, Japan, to Manama, Bahrain, Oahu, Hawaii, and multiple locations across California. Together, they enjoy traveling to National Parks, reflecting their love for adventure and the outdoors.

Crystal Bettenhausen-Bubulka, LCSW, MSG
CEO and Founder

Meet Crystal!

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"Years ago, I was given a beautiful kaleidoscope as a gift from a Japanese student. After my husband’s military orders moved our family to the Middle East, I packed it away in a box, forgetting all about it. That kaleidoscope would later remind me of the significance of broken pieces of glass and the light we shine on challenging situations. Much like life, the kaleidoscope’s beauty comes from its broken fragments—just as our experiences, no matter how difficult, can reflect something meaningful when we allow ourselves to see them from a new perspective."

We believe that the connection between the client and therapist is one of the most important aspects of the healing process, which is why we offer complimentary consultations to ensure our clinicians are the right fit for your needs. Our compassionate team of skilled professionals is dedicated to supporting you through life’s transitions. With diverse backgrounds and experience, we’re here to provide the care and guidance you need.

We understand how important it is for you to feel comfortable and confident in the care you receive, and we’re here to answer any questions you may have. Our goal is to make sure you feel supported, valued, and understood throughout your therapeutic journey.

Dedicated professionals committed to guiding you through life’s transitions with expertise and empathy.

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Our Team

Joe Bubulka is a seasoned Naval Officer with an impressive 30-year career, marked by numerous deployments across the Middle East and the Pacific. Throughout his distinguished service, Joe has been stationed in three different countries and held multiple leadership positions. As a Surface Warfare Officer, he has been in command of USS Sentry (MCM 3), USS Montgomery (LCS 8), and USS Omaha (LCS 12). His diverse Naval career reflects his adaptability, leadership, and dedication to duty.

Currently based in San Diego, Joe is a proud father of three daughters. Despite the demands of his Naval career, he has always prioritized family, instilling strong values and resilience in his children.

In 2020, Joe joined the Through the Kaleidoscope family as the Chief Financial Officer. Even while remaining on Active Duty, he brings dedication and commitment along with a keen financial eye to the organization. Joe expertly balances his Naval responsibilities with his dedication to supporting and advancing Kaleidoscope’s mission. His strategic financial oversight and leadership have been pivotal in driving the organization’s success.

Joe’s unique blend of military experience and financial acumen makes him an invaluable asset to the Kaleidoscope team. His contributions go beyond financial management and bookkeeping; he embodies the core values of integrity, perseverance, and service, inspiring those around him. Joe’s dedication and expertise continue to propel Through the Kaleidoscope toward achieving its goals and making a positive impact. We are fortunate to have his dedication, calm presence, and leadership skills.

Joseph Bubulka,
Chief Financial Officer

Meet Commodore Hei Hei, the highly esteemed Director of Sleeping and Lounging at Through The Kaleidoscope Lens Therapy & Consulting. With a keen intellect and an unparalleled sense of emotional intelligence, Commodore Hei Hei takes his role very seriously—whether he’s expertly draped across Crystal’s lap during therapy sessions or keeping a vigilant eye (and ear) on the neighborhood from his favorite spot by the window.

Known for his impeccable timing, Commodore Hei Hei often makes guest appearances in virtual sessions, offering a calming presence and a reminder that sometimes, the best way to process emotions is with a cozy nap. His dedication to ensuring all is well in the home office is unmatched, though his vigilance does extend to barking at any car that dares to pass by—after all, security is a top priority.

Adding to his unique charm, Commodore Hei Hei’s occasional snoring can often be heard during bilateral stimulation, providing comic relief during EMDR sessions and lightening the mood when it’s needed most.

Despite his many contributions to the home office environment, Commodore Hei Hei’s need for constant lap time and his commitment to alerting the household of every visitor (real or imagined) have earned him the distinction of being the primary reason Crystal has an office outside of the home. But rest assured, whether he’s on duty or off, Commodore Hei Hei’s focus is always on the well-being of the team—and maybe a few extra treats.

Commodore Hei Hei, Director of Sleeping and Lounging

Ready for your next chapter?

Begin your sessions in a supportive, judgment-free space—whether in-person or online. Together, we’ll work towards building resilience, fostering connection, and empowering you to thrive.

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After the consultation, we’ll design a tailored plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals, using evidence-based approaches to support your mental and emotional well-being.

Create Your Personalized Care Plan

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Schedule Your Complimentary Consult

Begin your journey by booking a free 20-minute consultation. This allows us to understand your needs, answer your questions, and ensure we’re the right fit for your therapeutic goals.