Kiana Rathjens, PsyD

I tend to approach the actual process of therapy from a humanistic and person-centered perspective; particularly emphasizing that each individual is the expert of their own life and that with shared empathy, the therapist and patient can better understand the latter’s reality and work to change what they may have control over. I have also learned that to “do good therapy”, different skills and tools are to be used as needed as treatment should be a collaborative process that is shaped over time.

At intake, patients can expect genuine collaboration on what therapy may look like for them based on their presenting problem and associated treatment goals-and from there, we tend to determine if we want to continue to try this out. Additionally, patients have noted that I’m quite easy to talk to and that they see me as another wholly unique person trying to help them, as opposed to a “blank slate” to just project onto. Additionally, past patients have appreciated our ease of conversation, my use of direct language, and practice of individualized self care — even in session as needed (i.e., many have especially loved when we color together – and I love it too!)

All in all, I want to highlight that it takes significant courage to recognize that you would like to seek out help. Your first step on this journey has already begun and I commend you for it. Effective therapy is often the result of a good match between the patient and therapist so I hope to meet you soon so that we can see if we are an appropriate fit for your treatment.