My name is Katharine Costello. I am an AMFT (#1444035) who provides therapy for individuals of all ages, couples, and families. I am working under the supervision of Erica Schaecher, LMFT, PMH-C (LMFT 48781).

Have you ever been curious about what makes you- you?

Each of us will come up with a unique answer for ourselves. We cope with our worlds in many different ways, and what once provided protection may no longer serve us later in life. As an associate, I found myself asking this and similar questions. How our pasts manifest in our present behavior to shape our futures is a nuanced journey that has always piqued my curiosity.

The satisfaction of that natural curiosity has always brought me back to therapy and mental health. I received my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Chapman University. Professionally, I have worked in various roles at an adolescent treatment facility. Here, clients were ages 13-18 and struggled with substance abuse and other mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders such as bipolar, complex and dissociative trauma, and personality disorders. I also supported the families, from parent support groups to multi-family process groups. I also have worked with people of all ages who identify as queer. In addition to treatment, I have also worked with people as they process grief and loss as well as bereavement.

As a clinician, I work with a trauma-informed, psychodynamic lens alongside attachment theory and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) techniques to hold space for you to experience complex emotions that may be difficult to confront. Our past experiences, from childhood well into our relationships in adulthood, shape us like clay. And, like clay, we can change shape and form as we continue to heal and grow.

Searching for the right therapist can be a taxing process as you meet a variety of clinicians to see who best fits your needs. I approach therapy by creating a safe, accepting space to encourage personal growth. I look forward to meeting you as you embark on this journey and begin to find the answers to the questions we often ask about ourselves.