Kate Penkethma, MA

(she/her)

Languages: English

* Welcome *

Sometimes our brain can be a scary place to live in. Sometimes our bodies feel disconnected from us, or we just feel a bit ‘off.’ And sometimes the life around us is too hard, too much, too painful. These thoughts, feelings, and sensations can be isolating, and that’s where therapy comes in. My hope is for you to feel a little less alone as you unpack the complexities of your life and move towards healing. Through our work together, your thoughts and feelings will be centered and we will learn alongside one another about how to best work through the issues you're facing. Welcome! 

* My Focus *

I specialize in working with clients who struggle with complex trauma, anxiety, gender, sexuality, OCD, spirituality issues, and relationships of all forms. I am passionate about encouraging my clients to seek empowerment and agency for themselves and grow in their ability to trust themselves. This may look like engaging in mind-body connection, externalizing anger and shame, sitting with the tension of the “both/and,” and experiencing shared moments of joy and laughter.

* My Approach *

My clinical approach is rooted in relational-cultural therapy, which emphasizes the importance of collaboration and empowerment in the therapeutic space. We are both learning from one another, and I am actively seeking to dismantle the power dynamic between clinician and client. Relational-cultural therapy is rooted in the belief that healing and growth is maintained through relationships and community. Not only that, healthy relationships occur when we acknowledge the importance of intersectionality for each individual, as well as the ways systems and structures impact one’s experiences. All of your identities, and how they interact with one another, will be honored and centered in the clinical space.

* My Philosophy on Therapy *

While my clinical work is rooted in RCT, I have an eclectic approach to therapy. I am personally influenced by intersectional feminist theory, queer theory, and critical race theory, and I will seek to incorporate aspects of these theories into our work together. I am energized by holding space for the complexities of being a human, and I am committed to continual learning and the examination of my implicit biases. Curiosity and wonder are welcome!

* Credentials & EXPERIENCE *

• MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, North Park University 

Prior to my work as a therapist, I studied visual art which indefinitely impacts my approach to therapy and healing. Creative, alternative therapeutic interventions can allow for further processing and understanding of self, and I welcome your unique methods of healing.

* MORE ABOUT ME *

I am a queer gal living in Chicago with a love for sparkles and miniature houses! In my free time, I love to dance, cook, and hug my favorite people.