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Kathleen Cates-Richardson

Therapist · Iowa

Kathleen Cates-Richardson, LMFT

Straightforward, skills-focused therapy for everyday life

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  • Thoughts and habits
  • Relationship support
  • Addiction help

About Kathleen

Kathleen Cates-Richardson is a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) practicing with 16 years of experience. She focuses on helping people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, relationship concerns, trauma and intimacy-related issues. Kathleen aims to create an open setting where thoughts and everyday habits can be talked through without judgment. Her approach emphasizes listening and practical steps toward change.

In sessions she works to make sense of what’s happening now, and how daily routines and thinking patterns affect mood and relationships. She helps people name the problems that feel stuck, and then breaks them into small, manageable goals. Conversations are kept straightforward so parents and busy adults can take concrete actions between meetings.

Her background includes work across different care settings over more than a decade and a half. That experience shapes a flexible style that mixes relational talking with skill-building tools. She draws on approaches that focus on emotions, thoughts, and present interactions to tailor each plan to the person in front of her.

Kathleen holds licenses in Iowa and Arizona as an LMFT. She accepts clients who communicate in English and can work with people from outside the United States. Before booking, readers should confirm current session formats and scheduling options to fit their needs.

People who want a supportive, practical partner in making life changes may find her approach helpful. She works steadily to encourage small shifts that add up to clearer thinking, better sleep, and improved everyday routines.

Areas of expertise

Primary focus

AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression

Also works with

Sleeping disorders

Additional focus areas

AbandonmentAdoption and foster careAging and geriatric issuesAutism and Asperger SyndromeAvoidant personalityBlended family issuesBody imageCancerCaregiver issues and stressCommunication problemsControl issuesCoping with natural or human-caused disasterDivorce and separationDomestic violenceDrug and alcohol addictionEating and food-related issuesFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFatherhood issuesFertility issuesFirst responder issuesForgivenessGender dysphoriaGuilt and shameHoardingImpulsivityInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeMen's issuesMidlife crisisVeteran and Armed Forces IssuesMood disordersObsessions, compulsions, and OCDPanic disorder and panic attacksPhobiasPostpartum depressionPost-traumatic stressPregnancy and childbirthProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-harmSex addictionSexual dysfunctionSocial anxiety and phobiaTrichotillomaniaWomen's issuesWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues

Therapeutic approaches

Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT)Existential TherapyJungian TherapyNarrative TherapySolution-Focused Therapy

Experience

16+ years

Credentials

Iowa, Arizona

Languages

English

Approaches that translate to online work

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening and understanding the person's experience so they feel heard and supported; it helps with relationship stress, grief, and feeling stuck. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, looks at everyday thoughts and habits and teaches practical skills to change unhelpful thinking and behavior, which can help with anxiety, depression, sleep, and addiction processes. Dialectical Behavior Therapy, DBT, emphasizes emotion regulation and coping skills for intense feelings and relationship conflicts.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will collaborate with the client to choose which methods fit their goals and needs, adjusting the plan over time based on progress and preferences. This is a shared process rather than a one-size-fits-all prescription.

The original biography does not list specific session formats, so confirm available options before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into busy schedules, arrange shorter check-ins when needed, or avoid travel time. It also allows people in other states or countries to connect with licensed professionals without relocating. Discussing goals and practical needs at the first meeting helps determine how sessions will be scheduled and structured to suit everyday life.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of problems does she help with?

She helps people with addictions, relationship concerns, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, depression, and sleep problems, among other areas.

What is her therapy style like?

Her style is open and nonjudgmental, combining listening with practical tools drawn from approaches that focus on thoughts, emotions, and present interactions.

How much experience does she have?

Kathleen has 16 years of professional work experience in clinical settings, which informs a flexible and practical approach to care.

What credentials and location are listed?

She is an LMFT licensed in Arizona and Iowa and is based in Iowa.

Which languages are supported and can international clients connect?

Sessions are offered in English, and she does accept international clients.

What session formats are available?

The original biography does not specify session formats; please confirm current options with the service before booking.

How does pricing work?

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

How do I start working with her?

Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule based on the therapist's availability.

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