I am Dr. Mary Kate Roohan (she/her), a queer licensed clinical psychologist, registered drama therapist, and assessment specialist.
It is challenging to determine which therapist or assessor you want to work with. You have been tasked with finding a random person to trust with some of your most vulnerable thoughts. The process of finding a clinician is actually quite odd (when you really think about it), and many folks give up in the middle of it because it can be overwhelming.
My hope is to alleviate some of the overwhelm by using this page to tell you a bit about who I am and how I work with clients.
A quick summary: I prioritize using evidence-based modalities (such as ACT, DBT, EMDR, and drama therapy) to improve your life. I am passionate about providing high-quality therapy and assessment to Highly Sensitive People (HSPs), comedians, creatives, and LGBTQIA+ folks.
Are you tired of pretending everything is fine? Totally understandable. Together, we learn tools and practice strategies that help you to create space for your emotions and thoughts.
If you are looking for a therapist or assessment specialist in California, schedule a consult with me so we can get started with your healing process.
Experience and Specializations
Credentials:
Licensed Clinical Psychologist (#34538)
Licensed Creative Arts Therapist (#002257)
Registered Drama Therapist (#706)
education:
B.A. in Psychology from the University of Notre Dame
M.A. in Drama Therapy from New York University
PsyD in Applied Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Experience:
Outpatient mental health
Inpatient and residential care
Community mental health
As Seen In…
National Alliance on Mental Illness
University of Notre Dame
Psychology Today
My Story: From Emotion Mind To A Therapist
Moving through life as an “emotional person” was the first indicator that I would end up pursuing a career as a psychologist. Multiple cries a day were common in my daily life and seemed to result from nearly any emotion, whether it be joy, gratitude, surprise, fear, or sadness. I felt alone in my experience - a running internal monologue informed me that everyone around me had more self-control and that my inability to handle my emotions was a clear sign that something was seriously wrong with me. Riding a daily roller coaster of emotion was exhausting—exhilarating highs were quickly followed by stomach-dropping lows. In high school, I discovered that I could mediate these ups and downs through behaviors that worked in the short-term, but cost me in the long term.
When I had reached the maximum amount of suffering I could tolerate, I began seeing a school counselor and it CHANGED MY LIFE. My experience in the role of “client” is what ultimately led me to pursue a career in mental health. I learned how to live WITH big feelings, and I want to empower others to embrace their emotions and build the life they want to live. I love providing folks with the tools they need to build the life they want to live and witnessing them transform and live according to their values. The most rewarding thing about being a therapist is instilling hope when things feel hopeless and witnessing my clients using their skills and taking ACTION.
I am committed to empowering you to make the changes that will allow you to live a vital and purposeful life.
3 Reasons To Choose Therapy with Dr. MK
Reason No.1
I integrate humor into our work together. We gotta have a lil fun along the way, right?
Reason No.2
I teach you skills AND help you to actually integrate those skills. I can help you identify and access your feelings!
Reason No.3
I will incorporate many different types of therapy to inspire hope in you (it can get better!) and motivate you to TAKE ACTION.
Ready to be heard and understood?
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In Person Therapy
Living in Los Angeles and interested in in-person therapy with me? Sign up for a 15 minute consult and we can determine if we are the right fit for each other.
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Virtual Therapy
Living in California and interested in virtual therapy with me? Sign up here to schedule a phone call to determine how I can support you in your healing journey.
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Free Resources
Living outside California? Join my email list for a FREE copy of "5 Ways To Be the Boss of Your Feelings." Be the first to know when I have launched my course.