Hello, I am Catherine, a fourth-year graduate student in clinical mental health counseling at Antioch University New England. I have had the opportunity to work with Simply Thrive Psychotherapy as a practicum student and look forward to serving here as a counseling intern.
As I was earning a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Pacific Lutheran University years ago, it was fascinating to me to begin to understand how cultures and relationships influence human behavior. I began to see the world differently; I began to understand that who we become as human beings reflects our present and past experiences, our cultures, relationships, and early life experiences. However, these things do not necessarily define us when we are given the choice of what to embrace and what we would like to let go. I tend to approach counseling from a cultural-relational, social justice and trauma-informed lens, which not only recognizes societal and historical barriers that influence our self-concepts, but also envisions the many sources of empowerment in which strength and resilience can be manifested.
My background includes working with pregnant and parenting mothers in a treatment center for substance use disorders and my clinical experience so far includes working with LGTBQ+ populations, cisgender, and trans-women, mothers, and caregivers. However, I’m interested in a wide range of diverse populations, ages, and backgrounds. In addition, my experience as a licensed massage therapist for ten years has helped me better understand the mind-body connection and its role in mental health.
I value my connection to other humans, nature, family, and music. I believe my role as a
counselor is to see you for how and who you are, and to understand, respect and support you in your journey to overcome your challenges and become the person you desire to be.
“I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgement; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.” - Brene’ Brown