Catherine Bitney (She/Her/They/Them)

I have extensive research and training in understanding the unique needs of trans, non-binary, gender nonconforming, and genderqueer populations, as well as the LGBTQQIA community. I also enjoy helping cigender individuals explore and challenge rigid cultural expectations about gender roles. I welcome parents and family members who want to learn more and be more supportive of their queer and trans loved ones.

Much of my graduate level research and training has been in understanding the complex racial identity development of people of color and White individuals. My dissertation research included examining how Black clients responded to White therapists who overtly broach cross-racial differences in the therapy session.

As a multiracial individual who at times passes for White, I've done a lot of self exploration and have participated in much training around White privilege. I enjoy working with clients who are exploring their own White racial identity and especially am interested in helping White therapists so they can better understand and help their clients of color without being fragile when race is brought up in the therapy session.

Much of my graduate school training was in cross-cultural psychology, including understanding how culture is important in helping clients who struggle with various mental health problems. I use a cultural lens to view each of my clients and consider how culture has shaped them over time.

Much of my training included a psychoanalytic and psychodynamic framework for understanding where problems originated for clients. I believe early childhood experiences and unconscious processes can shed light on why my client is currently struggling.

CBT is often a great tool to help clients feel a sense of control in their lives by challenging dysfunctional beliefs and changing unhealthy behaviors. I have extensive training in this therapy modality.

Stress and anxiety are often things that my clients complain about. Interestingly, research shows that how we view our stress can influence how it affects us. As we become more confident in our abilities to handle what life throws our way, we can reduce the impact of stressors in our lives. I enjoy working with clients to help them realize their strengths and abilities to overcome stressors and live life with less fears about the future and less overall anxiety.

Although gender diversity is more accepted these days, particularly in more liberal cities, many individuals continue to find themselves on the outside of acceptance within their families and communities. Humans are social creatures and we long to be accepted and loved. Sometimes it can be helpful to work with a therapist who can understand the nuances of being within the LGBTQ community. As a therapist, I hope to repair some of the subtle and not so subtle messages about worth.