Hi, I’m Kate.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC and I’m here to help.
My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in person-centered principles, valuing each person's innate strengths, experiences, and perspectives. Recognizing the importance of a client's autonomy and self-discovery, I work collaboratively to create a therapeutic alliance that fosters growth and self-acceptance.
I believe that understanding how our brains work is essential to gaining motivation for change. Why should I do something if I have no idea what it’s doing or why it works? My practice is informed by neuroscience, which allows me to incorporate evidence-based techniques that promote emotional regulation, mindfulness, and overall mental wellness.
I strive to make my practice as inclusive as possible. I am a LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex-positive, kink-allied and poly-friendly clinician. I work from a feminist, anti-racist and anti-oppressive approach and am dedicated to social justice.
AREAS OF FOCUS
While I can’t say I’ve heard everything, I’ve certainly heard a LOT. I’ve worked with most of the concerns listed in the DSM and then some that aren’t. However, I do have some key areas that I have the most experience in and tend to fit well.
Anxiety AND DEPRESSION
Tending to go hand and hand, anxiety and depressive disorders are the most common mental health concerns. I’ve had many clients who’ve struggled with difficult emotions like fear, hopelessness while feeling either too stressed and agitated, or so tired and heavy that they can’t move.
Sexual and gender diversity
Most of my clients are queer and that makes me so happy! My passion is in supporting this community and advocating for loving acceptance wherever it can be found - especially within one’s self.
Relationships
From partners to parents to PIs, our relationships impact so much of who we are and how we spend our day. Making sure those interactions are their healthiest is a huge factor to our mental health. Just think, the last time things were pretty bad - the relationships in your life probably were too, right?
All inclusive and welcome - Polyamorous, ethical non-monogamous, and Kink - if chains and whips excite you.
Graduate and Phd Students
Working from both personal experience and with many clients, I recognize the trials that these high achievers (who often feel they have in fact achieved nothing) face. The investment is so taxing - the most work for the least pay. I’m happy to support you through it, or help you figure out if it’s still right for you.
trauma
Learning how to speak the unspeakable. It’s an honor to share space with the brave people who are working to make sense of the most painful parts of their lives. I’ve worked with many survivors of a large variety of traumas such as sexual assault, gun violence, and abusive relationships.
Life transitions
Just when things seem under control, the sands shift under our feet and we have to figure everything out all over again. Life changes such as moving, starting school or work, adding or losing relationships, can create chaos in our minds and lives. Therapy can help put the pieces back in order, become more comfortable with the differences, and more confident in facing further changes in the future.
MY APPROACH
My goal is for each and every client to feel safe, understood, and supported. My clients have told me they left therapy understanding themselves better, feeling more confident they can manage their emotions and improved at work or school.
Person centered
The grounding presence of my work. This is your journey, so your goals are what matter, how you want to spend the session matters. I’m here to listen and offer the compassion that you can’t seem to find for yourself. Finding this kindness and learning to give it to ourselves makes life so much easier and better.
cognitive behavioral
Classic and evidence-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has much to offer in teaching us how to use our logic and reasoning to help manage our often
not-that-logical emotions.
mindfulness
Get more in touch with your body and mind - rather than running on autopilot and rote reactivity while feeling out of control of it all. Mindfulness offers an opportunity to build toward feeling connected, safe and grateful.
neurocounseling
My favorite thing! I'm a nerd, so I love to help others understand HOW our brains work so we can WITH them rather than feeling like we’re in an exhausting, never-ending battle. Primarily learning from Dr. Daniel Seigel’s and Dr. Steven Porges’ works on interpersonal neurobiology and polyvagal theory. Don’t be surprised if you get the occasional 5 min neuroscience fun fact lecture.
acceptance and committment
ACT is like taking what we know about the brain and making it a real life practice. Learn how to tolerate and use distressing emotions for a purpose other than misery and live your values so you feel successful every day.
Anti-oppression
If you’re looking for a feminist therapist, congrats, you found one. Feminist, anti-racist, with experience fostering accountability and compassion. I recognize the systematic issues cause personal impacts in our mental health.