Kathrina Cauckwell-Rafferty

Kathrina Cauckwell-Rafferty is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) practicing in California. She brings ten years of experience working with people impacted by substance use and related life challenges. Kathrina focuses on practical coping skills, repairing relationships, and helping people rebuild supports when life feels overwhelming.

Her work often involves addressing addiction and the trauma that can accompany it. She also helps with anger, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, intimacy concerns, self-esteem, and the strain that comes with major life changes. Additional areas she supports include adoption and foster care issues, blended family tensions, codependency, and workplace stress.

Kathrina uses a collaborative, client-centered style that begins by listening to each person’s goals. She incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills and Motivational Interviewing when those approaches fit the situation. The emphasis is on straightforward tools people can use between sessions.

Her background includes work in programs serving people with substance use disorders, survivors of domestic and sexual violence, and youth with family-related needs. Those roles shaped her focus on safety, skill-building, and rebuilding connection.

Sessions are conducted in English and the service model relies on a subscription that can be canceled at any time. Prospective clients choose the Start Therapy button, complete a brief matching questionnaire, and schedule according to the therapist’s availability.

How her approaches guide online work

Kathrina uses client-centered methods that begin with listening to each person's concerns and goals. This approach focuses on helping people feel heard and on building a plan that fits their needs, whether they are dealing with anger, addiction, or relationship strain.

She also draws on Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT, which teaches specific skills for managing strong emotions, tolerating distress, and improving interpersonal effectiveness. DBT skills are often useful for anger, anxiety, and stress. Motivational Interviewing is another tool she uses to help people identify their own reasons for change and build the motivation to follow through.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist and client will decide collaboratively which methods to use based on the client’s goals, preferences, and what is working in sessions. Kathrina aims to adapt techniques so they make sense in day-to-day life.

If you are considering online therapy, confirm the current session options before booking. Practical benefits often include fitting sessions into a busy schedule, shorter check-ins when needed, and not needing to travel for appointments. These practical features can make it easier to use skills between sessions and keep momentum toward goals.