MENUPatrick Kearns, LMHCA
Patrick Kearn’s Therapist Disclosure Statement <<< (Clickable)
Everyone experiences hardships and challenges in life, but they can look very different for each one of us. One person’s ‘bad day’ looks like a dream compared to someone else. Comparing our own growth and challenges to others only goes to prove the grass is always greener. I believe in working with clients to find their own definition of progress and help them take steps along that path.
Seeking therapy takes guts, and growth is not always a simple or straightforward path. Depression, anxiety, neurodivergence, grief, trauma, family tension, and even just feeling ‘off’ can lead people to finding therapy. Whatever the reason, making the choice to seek assistance is a courageous step. Through therapy we can come to know ourselves better and engage with life the way we want to.
One of the first steps in therapy is building rapport and the therapeutic alliance. Together we create a space for you in therapy where we can explore and discuss your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a non-judgemental, honest, and supportive manner. This process can sometimes feel uncomfortable, but growth is often uncomfortable at first. The alliance is the foundation of therapy and the cornerstone of growth.
A collaborative environment in therapy is a powerful force that can lead to real change for clients. Even so, I can’t walk the path for my clients, but I can be with them along the journey. With every journey there are sometimes unforeseen challenges, and we will work together to resolve them.
My therapeutic approach comes from both academic and lived experience, and is rooted in Person Centered therapy, Narrative therapy, and Geek therapy. I have worked in the mental health field for over 11 years for a few agencies in both Oregon and Washington. I received my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (MC61660633) in Washington State.
In my free time, I chase my toddler around the house with my wife, our two cats, and our dog. I am a lover of the outdoors and gaming, as well as writing and live music. I come from a small town outside Chicago, but the Pacific Northwest has been my home for many years.
Specialties and areas of focus
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Grief/loss
- Trauma
- Gender Identity
- Neurodivergence
- Self-esteem
- Relationship Issues
- Teens
Q&A with Patrick
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 listening to clients and their pressing concerns and identifying coping skills to help clients address their symptoms while we work together to explore deeper issues. Whenever I work with clients I focus on functionality and distress, assessing these can provide a reference for treatment.
2.) Do you tend to lead the session, or follow my lead?
I’m here to provide support and a safe environment, and the client is the expert in themselves.
3.) What are your strengths as a therapist?
I tend to build rapport well with clients and find a collaborative rhythm quickly that allows for a smooth and supported transition into substantive treatment.
4.) If you had one superpower, what would it be and why?
I think being able to fly would be very fun and it would make travel easier; no traffic!
5.) What makes you laugh?
I love a joke for 5 people in a crowded audience. I’ve always been a fan of dry humor and a well timed one-liner.
6.) Who would you have dinner with, dead or alive?
I like the idea of a lively dinner party with plenty of interesting people. A few that come to mind are David Bowie, Janelle Monáe, Anthony Bourdain, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Prince, and Gráinne Ní Mháille.
