Today we’d like to introduce you to Kate Kutner
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I started out on a path toward counseling as a teenager, after working
with a therapist who had a profound impact on me. She made me feel heard and understood in a way that allowed me to carry, into adulthood, the value of self-compassion and awareness.
But being a psychotherapist was not my first career. I began as a young professional in the world of journalism and worked as a news producer for a number of years. This job was beneficial in exposing me to different perspectives, stories, and struggles that, in turn, aided me in building empathy, objectivity, and cultural competence. These qualities lie at the foundation of my approach to counseling, which I see as an opportunity to hold a safe space for all – regardless of what they may be experiencing or feeling.
After spending years in journalism and wondering quite often what it would be like if I moved forward and pursued my dream of being a therapist, I started grad school at 31 – and that was nearly 20 years ago!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’d say it’s been a winding road – sometimes smooth and sometimes quite the opposite! I spent years working in various settings focused on severe trauma, at-risk youth, and families hoping to reunify following traumatic events. I’ve also worked as a crisis clinician for a large medical group, that while very challenging at times – I was and continue to be grateful to have held space for those I saw.
My path to private practice was most definitely not smooth the first time around. I wasn’t sure it was something I’d ever revisit, however I ended up doing just that four years ago and I am so grateful I did! Owning a business comes with its own set of obstacles and challenges, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the people who help to make it smooth in the areas that are not my strengths.
Looking back over the years, I wholeheartedly believe that the bumps along the way – professionally and personally – allow me to better meet people where they are in the moment and encouraging them to be their most authentic selves, without judgment.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Kate Kutner Therapy?
Collaborating with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences – including my fellow LGBTQIA+ community members – I strive to create a therapeutic space where my clients can feel safe to explore their emotions, empowered to verbalize their experiences, and encouraged to bring to light what has long been kept in the dark.
My specialties include trauma, anxiety, and depression, but I also maintain extensive personal and professional experience working with aspiring parents who are struggling with loss, infertility, or navigating the foster care/adoption process. It’s my hope that an ability to relate to and deeply understand the struggles of my clients will help them to feel safe with and seen by me.
A strong current of empathy and acceptance is woven through every part of my practice, but I also hope to make the therapeutic experience light and joyful when appropriate. I find humor to be very healing at times and aim to help clients walk away from sessions feeling as though they just spent an hour with a companion who is deeply invested in their self-esteem and well-being. I really value the individuality and uniqueness of each client and seek to listen with intent in order to understand the intricacies of their story.
Pricing:
- Individual therapy $200/session
- Lyra Benefits accepted
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.katekutnertherapy.com
