Dr. Cathy Evangelatos

I’m Dr. Cathy Evangelatos, a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I’m glad you’re here and I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward healing and growth.

Education:

· I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology. I also hold a master’s degree in Theology and offer optional Christian-integrated therapy for clients who wish to explore the intersection of mental health and their spiritual identity.

· With more than a decade of experience (pre and post doctoral), I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside people through life’s most difficult and meaningful challenges.

Specialized Training-Integrative Faith-Based Approach

With a master’s degree in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary and specialized training in the integration of Christian faith and psychology including my clinical research project on integrating theology and psychology into a faith -based practice. This training equips me to offer thoughtful, well-informed support for clients who wish to explore the intersection of mental health and their faith. This is only provided at your request, and only when it aligns with what you are seeking.

My Therapeutic Approach: Psychotherapy for Healing, Growth, and Lasting Change

Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or a general sense of feeling stuck — psychotherapy therapy offers a supportive space to gain insight, develop resilience, and move toward a more fulfilling life.

I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy, a depth-oriented form of therapy. My primary approach is psychodynamic psychotherapy practiced from a biopsychosocial perspective. Together, we explore the connections between your past and present — including processing past trauma and recurring relationship patterns. I also have specialized training in dream analysis which can be incorporated when it feels meaningful to you.

This depth-oriented work often leads to lasting change. Many clients experience greater self-awareness, improved self-esteem, fuller use of their talents and abilities, and more satisfying relationships. Because the benefits tend to continue growing even after therapy ends, many people describe the work as truly transformative.

Other Integrative Methods I Use

I offer a flexible, integrative style allows me to tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals.

When appropriate, I draw from additional evidence-based approaches including:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Mindfulness
• Attachment Theory
• Client-centered Therapy

What to Expect in Your First SessionThe first session is a gentle, low-pressure meeting where we begin getting to know each other. Whether we meet in person or via secure telehealth, my goal is for you to feel safe, respected, and heard right away. Here’s what you can typically expect:

• A warm welcome and space to share what brings you to therapy.
• Time to talk about your current challenges, goals, and background (you share at your own pace).
• An overview of my approach (primarily psychodynamic psychotherapy & CBT) and how we can work together.
• Review of practical details like confidentiality, scheduling, and payment.

This session is mainly about building connection and seeing if we’re a good fit. Many people leave feeling relieved and hopeful. Feeling nervous is also normal.You don’t need to prepare anything — just come as you are. By the end, we’ll decide together on next steps, whether in-person or telehealth. I look forward to supporting you with warmth and care.