I am a clinical psychologist, licensed in California since 2001. I have extensive experience in helping people who have chronic pain and other chronic medical conditions. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy. I am also certified in CBT for insomnia. I am interested in the role that nutrition and diet play in health and have certifications in this area (though I am not a dietitian or nutritionist). I enjoy working with individuals and groups.
While many people think of CBT and being matter-of-fact and rooted only in the present, it is much more than that, allowing for exploration of past issues in a safe environment while working on present concerns and issues. It does often include homework, and I do give homework assignments. My many years of experience have taught me that I make a living from others' misfortunates, accidents, and tragedies. This realization makes me caring and compassionate. All too often, those with chronic pain and chronic medical conditions feel that they are not believed when they report their physical problems and pain levels. My goal is to provide a safe, caring , and accepting environment for people to discuss their concerns.
I have recently developed an interest in also providing help to people who have been traumatized by paranormal experiences.
Additional areas of focus: LGBT, Relationship issues, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Sleeping disorders, Anger management, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, ADHD, Caregiver issues and stress, Chronic pain illness and disability, Coping with Natural or Human-Caused Disaster, Hoarding, Panic disorder and panic attacks, Phobias, Post-traumatic stress, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Somatization
Clinical approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
CA Psychologist 18954
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Dr. Kathleen Ayers. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Dr. Ayer’s expertise is impressive! She has helped me through some very dark times. It’s as if I’m being snapped back into place!
Written on May 24, 2023 after therapy with Kathleen for 11 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, eating disorders, parenting issues, anger management, coping with life changes, compassion fatigue, and adhd
Thank you for always making the time to listen and making yourself available.
Written on Jan 02, 2023 after therapy with Kathleen for 4 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and anger management
Caring and understanding therapist. I couldn't be happier with my assignment. Admitaantly I've been on the site for a while now but I've never felt to change my therapist once since she has been extremely helpful and supportive.
Written on Dec 05, 2022 after therapy with Kathleen for 8 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, lgbt, self esteem, and adhd
Very responsive and gives great, honest feedback
Written on Aug 18, 2022 after therapy with Kathleen for 2 weeks
Great experience, was easier to find a therapist here than in my country. Only issue now I have to pay for it out of pocket instead through insurance. But anyway. Working with my therapist on here already helped me and I'll continue working with her.
Written on Mar 19, 2022 after therapy with Kathleen for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, eating disorders, sleeping disorders, self esteem, career difficulties, and adhd