Katie Fenster (she/her)
Hello! My name is Kathryn but most people call me Katie (she/her); I am a LPC and Registered Play Therapist TM. My educational background includes a BA in Anthropology & Mathematics from Grinnell College and a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South Dakota State University. Prior to entering the field of mental health, I worked as a tutor, data analyst and community organizer.
I enjoy working with children (ages 3+) and adults. As a play therapist, I understand that play is a child’s language, that healing is relational, and that supporting any child also means supporting parents. Therapy with me looks different depending on your age - though I use elements of play therapy across the lifespan, as it allows for a “whole brain” approach to healing.
I am a trauma informed counselor, I work with you to understand the impacts of past experiences and use evidence-based approaches to help you meet your goals. My approach is flexible, affirming & client centered. I incorporate education, neurobiology, EMDR, parts work, mindful self compassion, and Play Therapy. I ground my counseling in the postmodern collection of theories, working to empower individuals & families to understand the impacts of systems: from family of origin to larger communities, and take agency in both the counseling relationship and in their lives. I work with a variety of presenting concerns including: trauma, behavioral concerns, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and grief.
In my free time I enjoy hiking, gardening, browsing bean recipes, snowboarding, reading, backpacking, netflix, and quiet family time with my spouse, child & dog.
Please note that court mandated therapy & supporting families going through high conflict open legal cases are outside of my scope of practice.