Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress, LGBTQIA+, Coping Skills, ADHD, Sexual Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma / PTSD
Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Mary Kate
Mary Kate Ulshafer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience. She specializes in assisting children (ages 5-10), preteens (11-13), teens (13-18), and young adults (18-20) of any gender identity or sexual orientation with navigating life changes, anxiety, depression, mood, and behavior based difficulties, trauma, identity issues, and low self-esteem. Mary Kate offers individual and family counseling and has expertise working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Mary Kate received her Master’s in Social Work from Kennesaw State University. She utilizes trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, client-centered therapy, and motivational interviewing. Mary Kate is familiar with trauma-informed care and crisis intervention.
Mary Kate provides a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment to inspire change, engagement, and growth. She values a collaborative and creative approach to treatment, focusing on the client's strengths, interests, and goals. She believes that change sprouts from trust, education, and empowerment.
"I am a warm, creative, communicative, and interactive child and adolescent therapist who understands the need for caregiver engagement and individual empowerment."
Get to know Mary Kate
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I decided to become a child and adolescent therapist because I have always been passionate about helping and supporting kids. My passion started at a very young age, babysitting, and over time I saw that I had a talent for helping kids feel heard and supported.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work best with clients between the ages of 5-20, who are willing to participate, collaborate, and be a little creative with problem-solving. Whose families are also willing and ready to support and participate in the therapeutic process. People who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community will find a safe and supportive space in my office.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I am excited to work with Children (5-10), Preteens (11-13), Teens (13-18), and Young Adults (18-20) of any gender identity or sexual orientation who are seeking intervention and support with navigating life changes, stress, trauma, identity issues, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, mood, and behavior based difficulties.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
I wish clients knew that talk therapy is not the only form of therapy. Therapy can be drawing, playing, music, meditation, learning, engaging with others, along with talking.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
Thrivework provides a safe and supportive space for me to provide high-quality care for my clients.
What inspires you?
My client's resilience, diligence, and dedication to showing up for themselves to create a happier and healthier life.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
A warm and low-key "Get to Know You" session where we will spend time getting to know each other, exploring what has brought you in for therapy, and answering any questions. We will also spend a little time outlining the important therapy expectations like confidentiality.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
I hope to help the client feel a little more comfortable with the idea of therapy, have them feel seen, and begin to build the therapeutic relationship.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first session?
I am fun, creative, communicative, warm, and interactive, and like to customize my sessions to each client to meet their unique needs and personalities. As your therapist, I am here to be your support, listening ear, resource, and cheerleader. I also require any clients under the age of 18 to be actively involved in the therapeutic process.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I love spending time with my spouse, friends, and my pets. I also like to dance, bowl, and watch movies.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
Kindness first is my motto.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 7 years
- Graduating institute
- Kennesaw State University
- Graduating degree
- Masters of Science in Social Work
Additional details
Practice information
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