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. Ayers is hands down the best therapist I have ever had. Empathetic, listens to everything, relates warmly and matches what I need most, always providing the best skilled support. She is a masterful and wonderful clinician!
Written on Oct 12, 2024 after therapy with Kathleen for 9 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, and coping with life changes
Dr. Ayers is a very skilled therapist. She understands my issues in a way others don’t. She has helped me understand myself in ways that have helped and greatly impacted my life. Knowing my issues are trauma based has helped me better deal with them. It’s a subtle change but a profound one. It helps me make sense of the world.
Written on Oct 04, 2024 after therapy with Kathleen for 6 months on issues concerning depression, addictions, lgbt, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, eating disorders, sleeping disorders, self esteem, bipolar disorder, and adhd
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