Kat Calkins

Providing a safe and openminded space for my adolescent and adult patients are crucial. I want your experience to be calming and warm. Helping others has been a passion and core trait since I was a child. Life is challenging and I want to leave the world a better place than I entered it. I want to help end mental health stigma and provide patients with tools to improve their lives. Speaking from experience, struggling with mental health can be exhausting and overwhelming, especially when no one understands. I want to provide understanding and compassion to those who need it.

My approach to care is rooted in empathy, understanding, and collaboration. I incorporate evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), trauma-focused CBT, attachment-based therapy, and psychodynamic therapy, along with medication management when appropriate. CBT helps identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, while MBCT combines mindfulness and cognitive strategies to improve awareness and emotional regulation. Trauma-focused CBT helps address trauma-related thoughts and emotions, attachment-based therapy explores relationship patterns and emotional connections, and psychodynamic therapy examines underlying emotions and past experiences that may influence current behaviors. During sessions, I explain these approaches and work collaboratively with you to develop practical coping strategies tailored to your needs. We build on progress consistently and encourage applying learned skills in daily life. When appropriate, medication management includes reviewing effectiveness, tolerability, and potential side effects, along with medication education and adjustments as needed. My goal is to provide compassionate, individualized care that supports healing, personal growth, and lasting emotional well-being.

During our first session, we will focus on getting to know you, understanding your concerns, and discussing your mental health history, symptoms, and treatment goals. This initial appointment is a collaborative conversation where we will explore your needs and determine the best approach to care, including therapy and medication management when appropriate. You are in control of what you feel comfortable sharing, and we will move at a pace that feels right for you. I encourage you to ask questions and share any concerns along the way. It is completely normal to feel nervous or uncertain about your first visit. My goal is to create a warm, supportive, and judgment-free environment where you feel heard, respected, and comfortable beginning your mental health journey.