Kathleen O'Connor

Kathleen O'Connor is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of hands-on experience. She helps people manage anger, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, and stress. Kathleen emphasizes meeting people where they are and working toward practical goals at a pace that fits each person.

She uses a conversational, interactive style and checks in often to make sure she is hearing the client. Sessions focus on clear steps toward goals, skill building, and practical strategies people can try between meetings. Kathleen avoids stigmatizing labels and treats people with respect and compassion.

Kathleen trained in a program that emphasized care for people with severe mental illness and dual diagnosis. Her background includes work in nursing homes, substance abuse treatment, psychiatric emergency rooms, dialysis clinics, criminal justice settings, and community-based crisis services. She has offered in-home therapy and has provided telehealth by phone and video.

Her approach usually combines motivational interviewing, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy. She adapts methods to the needs and goals of each person rather than following a fixed plan. Kathleen aims to empower people to recognize strengths and develop clear steps toward change.

Many people come to her hoping for short-term help or a longer process depending on their goals. She invites those ready to work on change to take the next step and says she will support and travel with them toward their goals.

How therapeutic approaches translate to online care

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening and following your priorities. The therapist creates an accepting space, reflects what you say, and helps you set your own goals. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at the link between thoughts, feelings, and actions and teaches practical skills to change unhelpful patterns. It is often used for anxiety, depression, and anger. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) offers concrete skills for managing strong emotions and improving relationships, including mindfulness and distress-tolerance techniques.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will talk with you about your needs, goals, and preferences and suggest methods that might fit. Together you can try approaches and adjust the plan over time based on what helps.

The therapist's biography notes prior use of phone and video telehealth during the pandemic, but current session formats should be confirmed before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit appointments into a busy day, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. It also lets people continue care when they move or have schedule changes. If you want to explore remote options, confirm the specific session formats available and the scheduling details when you begin.