Meet Katie Akersten, LSW

About Me

Hi my name is Katie Akersten, and I am a Licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with kids, young adults, and adults. 

From a young age, I have always had a strong desire to help others, especially during difficult times. Growing up, my family was constantly involved in supporting those in need. Witnessing firsthand the positive impact our family’s assistance had on people’s lives was incredibly inspiring.  I believe that this is ultimately what led me to choose a career in social work.  The opportunity to guide someone towards making positive changes or to provide support to those who lack it is both meaningful and rewarding to me.

What is Your Therapeutic Approach?

I utilize aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing in my practice. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is excellent for helping clients recognize and reframe negative thought patterns and behaviors. By challenging these patterns, clients can develop healthier ways of thinking and behaving, which often leads to improved emotional well-being. Motivational Interviewing (MI) complements CBT well by focusing on enhancing clients’ motivation to change. 

By working collaboratively, we can develop strategies to reframe these negative thoughts and implement positive coping mechanisms to help make a lasting change. At the core of my practice is a client-centered approach, which emphasizes creating a safe, nonjudgmental, and empathetic environment for the client. I strive to build a strong therapeutic relationship where clients feel heard, understood and respected. By focusing on the client’s perspective and experiences, I can tailor my approach to help them meet their needs and goals.

A Few Fun Facts

When I am not at work, you will find me outdoors with my husband and our two kids. We love the beach, the woods, hiking, and a good playground!