Katherine Gackstetter, LMFT — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Katherine!

I provide a space for people to process and explore their past experiences in order to make the necessary changes that lead to a more content and fulfilled life. I want you to feel seen, heard, and validated in a way that empowers your growth.

My focus

I work with parents, including single parents, parents struggling to advocate for their children, and parents adjusting to new roles. I also enjoy working with clients who need support through life transitions and are struggling to manage daily stress, career stressors, relationship challenges, or general anxiety.

My approach

I use a client-centered approach, believing every individual has the capacity to grow and change. Developing insight and self-awareness, while sometimes uncomfortable, is how we become who we want to be. I also use CBT techniques, including identifying automatic negative thoughts and teaching relaxation techniques.

My communication style

I create a relaxed space for clients to truly be themselves. There's no need to edit yourself or feel like you need to present in a certain way. Don't be surprised if you find yourself laughing in sessions. Therapy isn't just about exploring tough emotions; we explore them all, and I use humor to connect.

My journey to mental healthcare

I didn't know I wanted to be a therapist until I started therapy as a teenager. I loved how therapy made me feel, and I knew I could provide a space for others to feel the same way. I felt seen, heard, and validated in a way I had never experienced before and that drives me to provide the kind of space for others.

My goals for you

I'm very collaborative when it comes to setting goals. I work closely with each client to create goals that are manageable, realistic, and helpful. There is no cookie-cutter goal for any client, so be prepared to work together to create individualized goals. I also check in regularly to assess for progress.

Our first session

The anticipation of the first session can be nerve-racking but I lead the first session and help you feel comfortable. Typically, the first session is a lot of me talking to introduce myself and set expectations for therapy. I'll ask basic questions to get to know you and allow you to share whatever you feel is pertinent for me to know.

I identify as...

Female
Caucasian or White

Expertise

Specialties

+ 10 more

Treatment approaches

Play Therapy

+ 1 more

Focus populations

Gay

LGBTQIA+

Lesbian

Military/Veterans

+ 4 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 56 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master in Counseling (MC) Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Katherine Gackstetter