Kate Petersen

I’m a licensed clinical psychologist based in the San Francisco Bay Area, and I specialize in treating anxiety, panic, OCD, sleep, grief, trauma, and the experience of feeling “stuck.” Starting therapy can be as daunting as starting any new relationship. It’s hard to know what to expect, and you hope the time, money, and vulnerability you put into it will pay off. With me, therapy is a collaboration—I have expertise in evidence-supported treatments, and you have expertise in yourself. We’ll work together to clarify what’s actually most important to you, as opposed to what “should be” most important to you. During our sessions, there is no topic that is off limits. I approach my work with warmth, creativity, transparency, and the knowledge that successful treatment is based on building a trusting relationship. I’ll help you become gentler with your feelings and braver with your actions. We’ll build insight, increase self-compassion, and change your behaviors in accordance with your values. My approach is grounded in behaviorism and mindfulness, and I integrate a variety of evidence-based treatments, especially ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) to help my clients grow. Because you are a unique individual, we’ll work flexibly to co-create a treatment that fits your needs, strengths, and identity. Therapy occurs within the context of our individual backgrounds and sociocultural factors, and this understanding is integrated into every stage of our work. Outside of my role as a therapist, I live with my family in the East Bay. I love gardening with native and drought-tolerant plants, and backyard composting in a freeform way that includes—but is not limited to—throwing apples cores and veggies scraps straight onto the ground. I’m also into thrifting of all kinds. I love to read illustrated memoirs (two of my recent favorites are Fun Home by Alison Bechdel and The Best We Could Do by Thi Bui). I didn’t always know I would end up being a therapist. When I was little, I wanted to be a translator. In college, I wanted to work in art and artifact conservation in museums. I found psychology through a series of volunteer positions, and I’m very glad I did. I find my work deeply meaningful and challenging in the best way. If we work together in therapy, I'll commit to being present with your experience and working together to find a way forward.