Description (2950 characters max)
Hello! My name is Katie (Katharine) Mechem, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with clients throughout California, by Telehealth (video sessions). My specialties are: chronic and life-threatening illnesses, disability, and grief, especially how these challenges affect families. My approach is Integrative, which means that I often use a combination of therapy methods depending on your needs and preferences (see the next section).
My approach
As an Integrative therapist, I typically use some combination of the following methods: Client-centered Supportive therapy to validate your struggles and help you untangle them; Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy to get a handle on any self-defeating thought patterns; Somatic techniques which deal with how the mind and body interact; aspects of Holistic therapy which honor your spiritual side or whatever gives your life the most meaning; and sometimes Expressive Arts therapy if you're drawn to being creative. I always welcome your input regarding which methods feel like the best fit. We may work with what's going on for you now, and/or with the broader context of family, culture, faith and community influences, positive and negative; past, present and future. This could include discrimination and/or abuse, as well as legacies of strength, pride, and coping strategies.
My focus
I specialize in working with individuals and families coping with chronic or life-threatening illnesses, disabilities, and grief. I also have expertise working with the LGBTQI community, people in recovery from addictive behaviors, and those impacted by the criminal justice system.
My communication style
In the therapy relationship we'll develop, respect for who you are, what you're going through, and your goals is number one. I listen carefully and compassionately without judging, for the details as well as the big picture, help you get clearer on things that are confusing, and honor all the feelings that may come up. There are always multiple strengths mixed in with the problems, and I help you uncover and build upon the strengths within you and those around you.
