Kate Hesney
With over 15 years of experience in the field of social work, I am passionate about helping adolescents, young adults, and adults navigate life's challenges with compassion, curiosity, and practical support. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change. My approach is warm, client-centered, and tailored to your unique needs. I integrate psychodynamic therapy to explore patterns and experiences that may be influencing your present, while also using solution-focused techniques to help you identify strengths, build resilience, and make progress toward your goals. I have a special interest in supporting mothers through the many transitions that come with parenthood. Whether you're preparing to welcome your first child, adjusting to life as a new mom, or balancing the demands of work, family, and your own well-being, I understand how overwhelming this season of life can be. As both a therapist and a mother of two young children, I bring not only professional experience but also a genuine appreciation for the joys and complexities of motherhood. Seeking therapy is a courageous step, and my goal is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel comfortable exploring your experiences, strengthening your confidence, and moving toward a more fulfilling life. I look forward to partnering with you on your journey.
First session
Our first session is all about getting to know one another. I believe that meaningful therapy begins with a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, safety, and understanding. During our time together, I'll want to learn about what brings you to therapy, your experiences, and what you hope to gain from the process. You'll also have the opportunity to ask questions and get a feel for my approach. There's no pressure to share everything at once. We will move at a pace that feels comfortable for you, creating a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can begin exploring your concerns. My goal is for you to leave our first session feeling heard, understood, and hopeful about the work we can do together.
Strengths
My approach to therapy is flexible and responsive to what you need in each session. I like to begin by creating a space where you feel heard, supported, and accepted. Building a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation of our work together, so I prioritize listening with empathy and understanding. As we get to know one another and trust develops, I will gently challenge you when appropriate to help you gain new perspectives, recognize patterns, and move toward meaningful growth. My goal is to balance support with thoughtful encouragement, helping you feel both safe and empowered as you work toward the changes you want to make.
Ideal clients
I enjoy working with women navigating the many stages and transitions of motherhood—from preparing for a new baby to adjusting to life as a new mom, balancing the demands of work and family, or rediscovering yourself as your children grow. Motherhood can be deeply rewarding, but it can also bring unexpected challenges, and I strive to provide a supportive space where you can feel understood, regain your sense of balance, and prioritize your own well-being. I also enjoy working with teenagers as they navigate the transition into adulthood. Whether they're facing academic pressures, relationship challenges, questions about identity, or the uncertainty that often comes with this stage of life, I provide a warm, collaborative environment where they can build confidence, develop healthy coping skills, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves.
Treatment methods
Relational
**Relational therapy** is based on the belief that our relationships—both past and present—play a significant role in shaping how we see ourselves, connect with others, and navigate life's challenges. In therapy, we explore these relationship patterns with curiosity and compassion, helping you better understand how they may be influencing your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors today. The therapeutic relationship itself is an important part of the healing process. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, supported, and genuinely understood. Through this trusting relationship, you can explore difficult experiences, develop healthier ways of relating to yourself and others, and build greater self-awareness and resilience. Whether you're navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, motherhood, or feelings of anxiety or self-doubt, relational therapy offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of yourself and create more fulfilling, authentic connections both within and outside of therapy.
Psychodynamic
**Psychodynamic therapy** focuses on understanding how your past experiences, relationships, and unconscious patterns may be influencing your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors today. Together, we'll explore recurring themes in your life, identify patterns that may no longer be serving you, and develop greater insight into how these experiences shape your relationships and sense of self. Rather than only addressing current symptoms, psychodynamic therapy aims to uncover the root causes of emotional distress. As you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, you'll be better equipped to make lasting changes, improve your relationships, and respond to life's challenges in healthier, more intentional ways. While we may explore the past, our work is always connected to your present life and the goals that matter most to you. My approach is warm, collaborative, and paced according to your comfort, creating a space where you can feel safe to reflect, grow, and move forward.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
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Licensed in
- ConnecticutLicense 58.008495
- Rhode IslandLicense ISW03157