Kathi Brandt, LICSWA

Kathi Brandt

Kathi Brandt’s Therapist Disclosure Statement <<< (Clickable)

Every one of us has incredible potential within us, which can help us lead meaningful and happy lives. However, we all face challenges that can feel overwhelming, leaving us unsure or disconnected. In these challenging moments, having mental health support can make a big difference, enabling us to recognize and build on the inherent strengths and abilities we already have. My journey, which includes my own experiences with therapy, has shown me the powerful impact mental health support can have in transforming our interactions with the world around us. Therapy provides us with a safe space to explore our thoughts and feelings, enabling us to understand ourselves and our relationships better.

My life has taken me down many paths, each one helping to shape me into a more empathetic and skilled provider. From growing up in a small town, to earning a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts degree, and then spending over a decade working in the nightlife industry, I’ve learned that life’s twists and turns can lead to colorful, enriching experiences. My desire to have a positive impact on the world was cemented when I began volunteering as a Sexual Assault Advocate with the YWCA. This passion led me to return to school and pursue a degree in Sociology with a focus in Psychology from Washington State University. During that time, I worked at a psychology office helping to assess adults for Autism and ADHD. In 2025, I completed a Master of Social Work degree at Columbia University. Working at Refresh Therapy, I look forward to continuing my mission of uplifting and celebrating the diverse identities and experiences that make our world such a unique and wonderful place.

In our sessions, I aim to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable being vulnerable and open. Therapy must be a collaborative process guided by your goals. I am there to offer compassionate encouragement and structure as you work toward them. I value being inclusive and affirming of diverse backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, and relationship structures. In our practice, I acknowledge the oppressive societal structures we all exist within and am dedicated to unlearning the ways that privilege may become present in the services we provide. Additionally, I am deeply committed to offering trauma-informed care.

I prioritize creating an environment where you feel valued and look forward to our time together. I encourage your feedback as we move through the therapeutic process to ensure it remains tailored to your evolving needs. Each session should feel supportive, welcoming, and sometimes even lighthearted. Pursuing healing and growth requires a balance of serious reflection and moments of joy. I am here to walk alongside you, bringing empathy, humor, and expertise, ensuring you never feel alone as you navigate the challenges and delights in life.

Specialties and areas of focus

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
  • Trauma
  • Life Changes
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
  • Grief/loss
  • Trauma
  • Self-esteem
  • Couples
  • Relationship issues
  • Women’s Mental Health
  • Sex Work

Q&A with Kathi

1.) Some therapists are more comfortable addressing the immediate problem, while others want to focus on the deeper issue. Which are you?

I tend to take a balanced approach. I like to provide you with methods and tools that can help provide relief from any acute concerns that have brought you here, but I also value exploring deeper patterns and underlying issues that may be impacting your overall quality of life. It is only with that deeper understanding of yourself that you can approach life’s challenges with insight, make choices that honor your values, allowing you to create a life full of purpose and fulfillment.

2.) Do you tend to lead the session, or follow my lead?

I like to think of therapy as a road toward growth and understanding. You’re the one behind the wheel, steering your life, and I’m the GPS—offering guidance, suggestions, and support along the way. I’m here to help you navigate, but you’re the one leading the journey.

3.) What are your strengths as a therapist?

My insightful and intuitive approach allows me to help you recognize patterns in real time, ensuring you feel progress after each appointment. I offer an open-minded and curious space where you can come as you are and let your guard down. Together, we will explore solutions to find the best path forward for you as a unique individual.

4.) If you had one superpower, what would it be and why?

If I could have one superpower, I would choose the ability to teleport. I love traveling and experiencing different cultures and perspectives, and teleporting would allow me to explore the world in an instant and connect with incredible people everywhere. It would also let me spend more time with my closest friends who live far away—sharing hugs, making memories, and being present in ways that distance normally makes difficult.

5.) What makes you laugh?

I find joy in life’s absurdities and those small, unexplainable moments that make you question reality can truly be the best. And dogs! Dogs, with their sometimes bizarre antics, always bring a smile to my face. It’s impossible for me to be unhappy around them.

6.) Who would you have dinner with, dead or alive?

If I could choose anyone to have dinner with, it would be Marty Goddard. She’s the brilliant mind behind the rape kit and her tireless efforts against sexism and an unfair justice system led to a crucial tool that has helped countless survivors and acts as a vital protection against violence. I’m so inspired by her incredible strength in overcoming the obstacles that came with finding a solution to such a taboo subject, and the creativity and humor that she leaned into along the way. I think she’s an amazing woman and I wish more people knew about her and her accomplishments. If you’d like to learn more about her, check out the Criminal podcast episode, “The Kit” (https://thisiscriminal.com/episode-246-the-kit/).