Embracing the Winding Path: The Journey to Becoming a Psychotherapist

Kathleen sitting on couch looking off into distance | Kathleen Killen Psychotherapy and Coaching

In the spring of 2019, my life took an unexpected turn when my husband and I separated. I was devastated, and it felt like everything I had known and wanted was slipping away. The pain was overwhelming, and I found myself on the kitchen floor, tears streaming down my face, feeling like I couldn't breathe. But at that moment, something shifted within me. I realized that I had a choice—to let the grief consume me or to embrace it as a teacher and grow from it. I chose the latter, determined to use this life transition as an opportunity for self-discovery and growth.

Before my divorce, I had a successful career in communications and marketing, but it was my own experience that led me to explore coaching and, eventually, psychotherapy. Connecting with people and helping them find silver linings during difficult times felt deeply meaningful to me. I embarked on a coaching journey, but something was missing. I wanted to go deeper, to understand my clients' lived experiences and provide them with even more support and growth.

This deeper understanding came through various avenues, including personal development and learning from other professionals. I witnessed the effects of untreated mental health struggles within my own family, leaving a profound impact on me. And then, my own mental health journey unfolded when I was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 42. Instead of seeing it as a limitation, I embraced it, using psychotherapy and coaching to thrive. This revelation unlocked a newfound motivation and focus in my life, and I knew I couldn't keep this transformation to myself.

My vision and aspirations are clear—to serve the world, one couple at a time. When my own marriage faced challenges, I realized that I didn't know how to work on it effectively. It was a painful realization, but it also ignited a passion within me to help others in similar situations. I work with couples because I understand the heartache of losing connection with someone you once loved deeply. I know the pain of feeling distant and disconnected, but I also believe in the hope and possibility of finding a way back to each other.

I also work with individuals, as sometimes we need to work on ourselves before we can mend our relationships. I understand the struggle of being the only one seeking help in a relationship, and I'm here to provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to grow and heal.

And for those who are going through the process of ending a relationship, I want them to know that I have walked that path too. I understand the grief and the challenges of moving forward. I am here to offer my support and to help them find their way to the other side, where healing and thriving are possible.

My journey to becoming a psychotherapist has been a deeply personal one, filled with growth, healing, and transformation. I am committed to using my experiences and knowledge to make a positive impact in the lives of others, one heartfelt connection at a time. It is an honour to walk alongside my clients on their unique paths, offering support and guidance as they navigate the ups and downs of life. Together, we can find the strength to overcome challenges and discover the possibilities that lie ahead.


Previous
Previous

From the Bedroom to the Boardroom: The Link Between Successful Romantic Relationships and Effective Leadership

Next
Next

Discover the Power of Mini Meditation: Reset Your Thoughts and Transform Negative Emotions