Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Cathy A. Martin
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Orange County, CA, and working with clients within the state of California via telehealth. I work primarily with women and specialize in self-esteem, relationships, sexual abuse, and other trauma. I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, and Jungian analytical therapy.
My focus:
If you have experienced trauma, including but not limited to sexual trauma, this can contribute to your mental, physical, and emotional struggles. Sexual trauma is not easy to discuss, as it is a taboo topic, and you may not find you can share your story with your friends and family. Secrecy is part of the toxic shame that often leads to issues with self-esteem, relationships, intimacy, and other behavioral problems.
My treatment methods
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
DBT is a powerful tool that can teach you how to regulate your emotions when past or present events may trigger you. I like to explain that we may get stuck in our emotional mind, when sometimes we need to access our rational, logical mind. DBT will help you to use both emotions and logic to create a wise mind.
Psychodynamic
I believe much of our behaviors are unconscious and outside of our awareness. When we want to make changes, we must first become aware of our behaviors and beliefs.
Specializes in
Self Esteem
Career Counseling
Women’s Issues
Anxiety
Sexual Abuse
Trauma and PTSD
My communication style
Therapy will help you become aware of your struggles' root causes. I will show up to help you feel safe and supported. Together we will explore your fears, goals, painful memories, and dreams so that you can understand yourself better. I also believe in the power of laughter and joy; you can do powerful work with lightness and tears.
My journey to mental healthcare
I have been in practice for 14 years, but I have always been drawn to wanting to help people. I am a good listener and trust myself to be a wise guide to others. I believe every person has the answers within themselves to reveal the shiny pearl within. I can help you if you are ready to do the work of personal growth and healing.
My goals for you
I will ask the client to identify the primary symptoms and issues during our first session. Together we will be able to set specific, measurable goals for therapy to see progress and changes that will benefit the client in the long term.
My first session with you
I will complete an intake on the first session, which includes gathering family history and background information. I spend most of the session listening to the client to understand the issues and what the client hopes to get from therapy.
