Katrina Cairo, LMHC

Katrina Cairo’s Therapist Disclosure Statement <<< (Clickable)

I am a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist associate. I graduated from Pacifica Graduate Institute with an MA in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and Depth Psychology.

I believe that the most important relationship we have is with ourselves. As a therapist, I feel passionate about helping my clients reach greater self-awareness and self-acceptance. Being able to know ourselves more fully is the foundation to facing life’s challenges with understanding and grace. I approach therapy in a non-judgmental way. I let my empathy and curiosity help guide sessions.

One of the most important parts of therapy is the relationship between the therapist and the client. To cultivate an environment that feels safe for a client to explore anything and everything, I draw on my personal experiences, humor, and ability to hold difficult experiences and feelings. I recognize that while therapy may at times feel hard or uncomfortable, with the right support it can lead to healing, transformation, and personal empowerment. My aim is to provide reflection, understanding, and encouragement. The result is a therapeutic relationship that is both helpful and rewarding.

When I’m not seeing clients, I get outside. Reading, talking philosophy, attempting to cook, spending time with family and friends, and traveling are a few of my favorite things.

Specialties and areas of focus

Grief/Loss/Bereavement
Depression
Anxiety/Stress
Change of Life Issues
Low Self-Esteem
Eating Disorders
Relationship issues
Anger
Trauma
Depth Psychology
Existential Psychotherapy

Q&A with Katrina

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

I believe in a client centered approach, meaning the client’s needs and desires are addressed first and directly. I also recognize that therapy can provide an opportunity for clients to explore deeper issues that may or may not have been the primary reason for coming to therapy.

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

I view therapy as a collaborative process. Some sessions may be more client led, while others might feel more guided by the therapists’ insights and questions. Creating a style of therapy ultimately depends on the needs of the client and sometimes simply the needs of the day.

3.) What are your strengths as a therapist?

I genuinely love what I do. Being able to provide a place where others can feel safe and vulnerable is a great honor. I sincerely believe that people can change and heal themselves through love and acceptance. I have always felt passionately about supporting others during this process. This gives me great confidence in my clients and the power of therapy.

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

I would love to be able to breathe underwater. There are so many undiscovered parts of the world that lay just beneath the surface of the ocean. I would love the time to be able to explore endlessly.

5.) What makes you laugh?

I try and laugh as much as a possible, especially at myself. Maintaining a sense of light heartedness when possible has been very healing for me. I also love to watch sketch comedy and SNL.

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

My dream table would feature Georgia O’Keeffe, Albert Einstein, Martin Heidegger, and Jay Z.