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Dr. Kathleen Ayers

Therapist · California

Dr. Kathleen Ayers, CA Psychologist 18954

Understanding and practical care

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Review online therapy options on BetterHelp.

  • Chronic illness focus
  • CBT and ACT
  • Sleep support

About Kathleen

Dr. Kathleen Ayers is a clinical psychologist licensed in California. She focuses on concerns such as stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, grief, relationship and intimacy-related issues, and challenges that come with chronic medical conditions and pain. Her work also addresses sleep problems, anger, self-esteem, bipolar concerns, ADHD, and compassion fatigue.

She combines practical tools with conversations that make sense to each person. She commonly uses cognitive behavioral techniques alongside acceptance and commitment strategies. Sessions may include homework and concrete skills people can practice between meetings. Kathleen also draws on experience helping people with chronic pain and long-term illness, where feeling believed about symptoms can matter a lot.

Her background spans more than three decades in clinical practice, licensed since 2001 as CA Psychologist 18954. That experience includes individual and group work. She has developed training and additional certifications related to sleep-focused CBT and nutrition topics, though she does not present as a dietitian.

Her approach is straightforward and compassionate. She aims to offer a welcoming space where people can talk through what they are facing and try practical steps to make life more manageable. She also notes an interest in supporting people who report traumatic experiences tied to unusual events.

Readers looking to begin can use the site Start Therapy flow to match and schedule. Confirm the current session options and scheduling details before booking so arrangements match personal needs.

Areas of expertise

Also works with

LGBTRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesSleeping disordersAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderCoping with life changesCompassion fatigueADHD

Therapeutic approaches

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Experience

32+ years

Credentials

California

Languages

English

How ACT, CBT, and DBT can be used online

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice difficult thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them, then choose actions that match their values. It is often useful for chronic pain, anxiety, and life changes. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on changing unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns with clear steps and practice; it is commonly used for anxiety, depression, insomnia, and phobias. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches skills for managing strong emotions, improving distress tolerance, and strengthening relationships, which can help with anger, mood instability, and self-regulation challenges.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will cooperate with each person to try methods that fit their goals and preferences, adjusting tools as needed. Decisions about which techniques to use come from discussing what is most helpful for the individual and their situation.

Confirm the available session options before booking since specific formats are not listed in the profile. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy week, shorten travel time, and allow for different ways of checking in when needed. For example, a shorter video or phone check-in can work better on a workday, while a longer meeting can be scheduled when more time is available. Talk with the clinician during the matching process to plan the best way to include therapy in everyday life.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of concerns does she address?

She helps people with stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, grief, relationship and intimacy issues, and challenges related to chronic pain and medical conditions.

How would you describe her therapy style?

She uses straightforward, compassionate conversation and practical skill-building. Sessions can include homework and focused practice between meetings.

What is her professional experience?

She has 32 years of clinical experience and has worked with individuals and groups, including people who live with chronic pain and long-term health issues.

What credentials and location are listed?

She is listed as CA Psychologist 18954 and practices in California.

Which languages are supported and are international clients accepted?

Sessions are offered in English and international clients are not currently accepted.

What session formats are offered?

Please confirm current session options before booking since the profile does not list specific formats.

How is cost handled for sessions?

Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.

How do I begin working with this clinician?

Use the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule according to the therapist's availability.

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