Mary Katherine (MK or Mary) has her master’s degree in developmental clinical psychology from University of Detroit Mercy and has been in practice for 8 years. Beginning her career in ABA and Neuropsychology, MK has a passion for understanding and aiding people of all ages, neurodivergencies, and psychological challenges. With her undergraduate degrees in sociology and technical theatre, MK believes in the power of the individual to shape their environment and write their own story. Building collaborative efforts therapy with clients to empower everyone with the tools to resolve emotional, behavioral, and relational barriers to personal growth and wellbeing. Along with her dog Kenzi, a licensed therapy dog, they provide clients with a safe, confidential, and empathetic environment to reduce the stress of the transformative process, while instilling hope for a healthy future.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who is considering starting therapy for the first time?
A: Often times we don’t fully understand the amount of emotional, psychological, or environmental stress that we are under and how it is impacting health and functioning. Someone can be uncertain of starting therapy because they are not sure if they could benefit, or because it can be scary to be completely vulnerable with a stranger. If you are considering starting therapy or coming back after some time, it is important to know that clients hold the power in the relationship. While your therapist holds expertise and training in methods to help, you are the expert at your own life. Not every therapist is going to get it right all the time. If you are needing a different approach or thinking that your therapist is not a good fit, that’s okay! Therapy is about you and your betterment, not the feelings of your therapist. Please speak up. Tell your therapist what you are needing and/or seek out a new therapist. I promise we won’t be offended.
Q: What is your therapeutic approach or methodology, and why do you find it effective?
A: Along with training in assessments and diagnostics, MK’s training includes behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, and humanistic approaches. MK believes every individual has a unique set of needs, strengths, and circumstances. Being able to utilize a multidimensional approach allows the therapeutic process to be tailored to meet a client’s needs and help them reach their goals.
Q: What role do you think self-care plays in mental health, and how do you incorporate it into your own life?
A: Self-care has been reduced to a buzz word for an activity that can make you feel better in the moment- a pedicure, a dinner out, a vacation. But self-care truly goes beyond the momentary dopamine pleasures. Sustainable self-care involves caring for the whole-self long term, making sure to put focus toward serotonin building. For MK, this looks like making the hard choices to workout even when it’s been a long day, balancing rest and recharging, and setting boundaries when necessary, alongside a good vacation reset.
Fun Facts!
Favorite TV show: Currently, Bad Sisters
Favorite Book: East of Eden and The Women
Favorite Coping Strategies or Relaxation activities: Yoga, exercising, art, meditation, and walking with the dog in nature.
Favorite season: Summer
Favorite vacation spot or vacation type- outdoorsy including beach, hiking, historical/cultural.
