Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 5 ratings

Kat Chapman-Rizo

LMFT, 10 years of experience

Empowering
Direct
Open-minded

About me

***I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS MY CALENDAR IS ONLY OPEN TO HISTORICAL CLIENTS*** IF YOU BOOK AND ARE A NEW CLIENT I WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH REFERRALS BUT AM NOT ABLE TO SEE YOU **** Hey there! I’m a therapist with 8 years of experience in crisis settings and two more years in individual therapy, so I’m no stranger to talking about through experiences around suicide and self-harm. I’m all about creating a safe, affirming space for LGBTQIA+ clients and allied community members and meeting you exactly where you are—no rushing, just going at your pace. In our work together, we’ll explore whatever’s on your mind, whether it’s processing the pressures of capitalism or figuring out how to feel more like your true self. I’m especially passionate about helping people unmask and embrace their authenticity, moving away from masking just to fit in. Outside of therapy, I’ve got two cats and a dog who keep me entertained, and I love unwinding with some subversive embroidery. It’s all about finding those little acts of rebellion and joy in everyday life. If you’re looking for a down-to-earth, adaptable therapist who values honesty and creating a welcoming space, I’d love to work with you. Let’s tackle the big stuff together, one step at a time.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

In your first session with me, we’ll take time to get to know each other and ensure we’re a good fit for working together. This session is all about creating a comfortable, open environment where you feel safe to share what’s on your mind. We’ll explore what brought you to therapy, your initial goals, and what you hope to achieve through our work together. Don’t worry if you’re unsure about your goals—these can evolve as we go, and we’ll adjust along the way. We’ll also talk about some of the practicalities of therapy, like confidentiality, session structure, and what you can expect from our time together. I’ll explain a bit about my approach, particularly how I like to meet clients where they are, going at a pace that feels right for you. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask me any questions—whether about my experience, the way I work, or even about me personally, like my love for collecting hobbies. This session is your chance to see if my style feels like the right fit for you and to set the stage for a collaborative, supportive therapeutic relationship. Above all, I want you to leave the first session feeling heard, understood, and hopeful about the journey ahead.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

One of my greatest strengths as a provider is my ability to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel truly seen and heard. With 8 years of experience in crisis settings, I’m comfortable navigating tough topics like suicidality and self-harm, offering a steady presence during difficult times that does not just jump to involving third parties or involutary hospitalization. I bring a deep understanding of trauma, neurodiversity, anxiety, depression, and relational issues, which allows me to tailor my approach to each client’s unique needs. What makes me unique is my emphasis on authenticity and adaptability. I work closely with clients to unmask and embrace their true selves, moving beyond societal pressures and expectations. My work with LGBTQIA+ clients is especially affirming, helping them navigate their journeys in a way that feels true to who they are. Another strength is my commitment to meeting clients where they are, going at a pace that feels right for them. I prioritize collaboration, giving clients the space to guide their therapeutic journey while offering support, insight, and practical tools along the way. This adaptable, client-centered approach helps foster resilience, self-awareness, and meaningful growth without feeling rushed or on a time limited approach.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

I’m best positioned to serve clients navigating trauma, neurodiversity, anxiety, depression, relational challenges, and adjustment issues. I work well with individuals seeking a supportive, affirming space to process tough emotions, explore their identity, and work on unmasking. My approach is especially helpful for those who appreciate a therapist who meets them where they’re at, whether they’re tackling big life transitions, relationship dynamics, or the pressures of societal expectations. I also enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ clients and those wanting to explore how neurodiversity shapes their experience. Together, we’ll move at a pace that feels right, focusing on building resilience and embracing authenticity.

Specialties

Top specialties

I identify as

Serves ages

My treatment methods

Acceptance and commitment (ACT)

In my practice, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on guiding individuals to align their actions with intrinsic values, fostering a deeper connection to the self rather than external societal pressures. This approach encourages a shift from the pervasive emphasis on capitalism—such as productivity and material success—toward cultivating personal fulfillment and psychological flexibility. By prioritizing authentic values over market-driven imperatives, ACT helps clients navigate life with a greater sense of purpose and well-being.

EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a powerful tool for helping clients process and heal from trauma. I utilize EMDR to facilitate the reprocessing of distressing and traumatic memories, to reduce their emotional intensity and allowing individuals to integrate these experiences in a healthier way. This therapeutic approach empowers clients to move past traumatic events, fostering resilience and psychological well-being while recognizing this is not an approach that is meant for everyone nor is it a "quick cure."

Narrative

Narrative Therapy as an approach for addressing trauma, anxiety, ADHD, and other challenges by helping clients reframe their personal stories. This therapy empowers individuals to separate themselves from their problems, viewing them as external rather than intrinsic. Through this process, clients can redefine their narratives, fostering resilience and promoting healthier, more adaptive identities.

Psychoanalytic

Psychoanalytic Therapy is used to look into more of the unconscious mind to uncover the deep-rooted causes of trauma, anxiety, depression, relational issues, and other psychological issues. By exploring unconscious thoughts, feelings, and past experiences, clients gain insight into how these elements influence their current behaviors and emotional states. This therapeutic process facilitates lasting change by fostering self-awareness, helping clients resolve internal conflicts, and promoting healthier coping mechanisms.

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

In my practice, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a cornerstone for treating emotional challenges, emphasizing the balance between acceptance and change. DBT equips clients with skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, enabling them to manage intense emotions and improve their relationships. By fostering a non-judgmental approach to their experiences, clients build resilience and develop practical strategies for navigating life’s complexities more effectively.

Location

Virtual

Licensed in

Accepts

Cash - $250 per sessionAetnaAll SaversAnthemAvMedBlue CrossBlue ShieldBlue Shield (MHSA) MagellanCalViva Health (Medi-Cal)Carelon Behavioral Health (Commercial)Central California Alliance for Health (Medi-Cal)CignaCommunity Health Plan of Imperial Valley (Medi-Cal)EAP:CignaEAP:EvernorthEAP:UnitedHealthcare/OptumEvernorthGold Coast Health Plan (Medi-Cal)Golden RuleHarvard Pilgrim/UnitedHealthcareHealth Net (Commercial)Health Net (Medi-Cal)Health Plan of San Joaquin - Medi-CalL.A. Care CoveredL.A. Care Covered DirectL.A. Care Health Plan (Medi-Cal)L.A. Care PASC-SEIUOptumOptumHealth Complex Medical ConditionsOscarOxfordPartnership HealthPlan of California (Medi-Cal)San Francisco Health Plan (Medi-Cal)Santa Clara Family Health Plan - Medi-CalScripps Health PlanSharp Health PlanSurest (formerly Bind)Tufts Health/CignaUnited Medical ResourcesUnitedHealthcare Life InsuranceUnitedHealthcare Shared ServicesUnitedHealthcare StudentResourcesUnitedHealthcare/Optum
Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 5 ratings

2 ratings with written reviews

May 2, 2025

It wouldn't let me check enough boxes, but I would say she's Intelligent, warm, direct, open minded, funny, real, challenging, empowering and can help guide you to a salution. 10 out of 10, would recommend.

Verified client, age 45-54

Review shared after session 13 with Kat

February 26, 2025

She’s a genuine person. She listens. She remembers your stories (and I can tell a lot) She communicates her thoughts in a way that you understand. She’s kind and has helped me navigate very treacherous times. 10 out 10 would highly recommend

Verified client, age 45-54

Review shared after session 5 with Kat