I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California for 13 years. I think our earliest patterns of relating can be repeated until we become aware and utilize choice. It’s important to include the social setting in which we’re raised, including race, class, and social justice issues. It’s also important to learn how to help our nervous systems cope with stress in the present day. I love to work on dreams and other ways to access our internal landscape beyond intellect. I think building skills around Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation and Interpersonal Effectiveness is so helpful in our anxiety-provoking times.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In our initial session, I provide a comprehensive introduction to our therapeutic process, establishing session logistics, and collaboratively identifying areas of focus such as mood, career, relationships, and related goals. We will also complete a history and assessment.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

Half-jokingly, I refer to therapy as "applied litereature." I think deep, embodied understanding of ourselves and connection to others can lead us out of the mazes our minds can build. I see myself as being warm and approachable, creating a secure space for clients to deepen their self-understanding. My aim is for every client to leave a session feeling more equipped to tackle life's challenges than when they arrived. Open communication and ensuring my clients feel heard and understood are fundamental to my approach.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I love working with clients who are grappling with complex questions about relationships, personal identity, and life's purpose.

About Kim Coshnear