About Kathy

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Been there, done that

My own menopause is a work in progress. For a time I battled depression and occasional bouts of anxiety. With the help of a great therapist, and a practice which includes meditation and writing, I seem to be keeping “the Black Dog” (as my good friend refers to depression) at bay.I’m an artist at heart. I like to paint. I love to work with clay. I enjoy writing. I love to dance; not any “formal” kind of dancing, just “groovin to good tunes” dancing. My heart is young. There are still so many things to do! Two years ago I started taking acting lessons. It’s the realization of a childhood dream; to become an actress. I still haven’t worked up the courage to audition, but by God, I will! Next up; voice lessons. I’m still working out some of my kid ya-yas. Which is why I’m so passionate about this work. Menopause is the perfect time to be re-introduced to that kid within. To explore all those creative interests we once possessed as children.

I’m a Late Bloomer. Working full time to put myself through college, I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Community Health Education from the University of Toledo when I was 25.  I graduated from the University of Colorado with a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling at age 34.  Married my husband, Gary at 35.   First child at 39 (second at 42).  So sometimes it’s a shock to look in the mirror. “Who IS that old woman?!”

Middle age has presented me with a huge opportunity for learning. I’m currently enrolled in a two year program to become certified as a Hakomi therapist. Hakomi emphasizes a body-centered approach to psychotherapy.  I’m constantly reading, and my collection of books threatens to run me out of home and office!

Working with women has been such a gift for me.  I’ve served the mental health community of Boulder County since 1983.  I spent 10 years as a counselor in women’s health care. I’ve worked in outpatient and inpatient eating disorders programs. In a safe house. With pregnant women, new mothers, and teen moms. With mothers of teenagers. I feel a kinship with my clients, an awareness that we’re all on the same path.

My own first experience with therapy occurred just before my parents divorced, which would be thirty years ago or so. I was roped into attending family therapy sessions, which my mom signed up for in a last ditch effort to save the marriage. Imagine my surprise when I found myself enjoying therapy! Here at last was someone who understood the crazy dynamics of my family, and shed some light on why things had come undone. It was my introduction to the world of self exploration. Since that time I’ve relied on therapists for support during numerous transition periods; my wild, oat-sowing twenties, my searching-for-love thirties, tuning up the marriage/parenthood in my forties, and menopause/new career in my fifties.

So- I don‘t profess to have all the answers, but working on the puzzle keeps me sane!

I feel blessed in this occupation to have the opportunity to continually work on my own issues in order to be a healthy resource to my clients.