Dr. Kathleen Ayers , CA Psychologist 18954

Dr. Kathleen Ayers is a California licensed clinical psychologist (CA Psychologist 18954) who has practiced since 2001 and brings 32 years of experience to her work. She has focused much of her clinical energy on supporting people who live with chronic pain and other long-term medical conditions, pairing clinical training with practical strategies to help clients manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.

Her therapeutic approach blends cognitive behavioral therapy - an evidence-based method that examines links between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors - with acceptance and commitment therapy, which emphasizes values-driven action alongside acceptance of difficult internal experiences. She is certified in CBT for insomnia, a targeted form of CBT that addresses sleep difficulties, and she holds additional certifications related to nutrition and diet while making clear she is not a dietitian or nutritionist. She works with both individuals and groups and typically includes homework assignments as part of the therapeutic process.

Ayers describes her work as grounded in care and compassion, informed by long experience helping people after accidents, losses, and medical setbacks. Her stated goal is to offer a caring, accepting environment where clients can explore past issues while addressing current concerns. She has also developed an interest in supporting people who have experienced trauma related to paranormal events.

How evidence-based approaches translate to online therapy

Dr. Kathleen Ayers commonly draws on cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy in her practice. Cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought and behavior patterns, and it is often used to address anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and chronic pain. Acceptance and commitment therapy encourages people to clarify personal values and take meaningful action while learning to accept difficult internal experiences, which can help with stress, chronic illness adjustment, and trauma.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Dr. Ayers works collaboratively with clients to determine which methods best fit their needs, goals, and preferences. Together they review options, try techniques, and refine the plan as therapy progresses.

Online therapy can make this work more accessible through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging. These options allow for flexible scheduling, easier access from home or while traveling, and multiple ways to engage with a therapist between appointments. Licensed professionals can adapt CBT, ACT, and related skills to these formats to support ongoing progress and daily coping.