Kimberly Walker-Demattei

Hello, my name is Kimberly Walker- DeMattei. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I currently work with individuals who are experiencing grief and loss due to the death of a loved one or an impactful life change as well as various other life transitions, and mental health challenges. Unaddressed grief can often and unknowingly be at the root of the problem. I offer art therapy, psychoeducation, mindfulness, and self-care strategies. I understand how painful and life-changing it can be to experience loss and grief. I believe a supportive and therapeutic relationship can support people navigate life's biggest challenges, find workable solutions, increase self-awareness, and build the strength to live well. I know I can support you in creating your desired changes. I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental, and accepting safe space for clients. I look forward to working with you!

My approach

I utilize and integrate various techniques and tools to support people to make their desired changes. I am person-centered, directive, while offering guidance. I often start by teaching self-care strategies, mindfulness-based interventions, as well as offering collaborative goal creation. In addition, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral therapy when needed as well as motivational interviewing. I offer psychoeducation regarding grief and loss with suggestions for coping with the loss and change.

My focus

I currently work with kids 12 years and older, teens, and adults who are experiencing various life adjustments. I am a generalist with more specific training in grief and loss as well as childhood development. I also treat people experiencing depression, anxiety, codependency, ADHD, trauma, abuse, addiction, grief and loss, parenting issues, aging and retirement, empty nesting, chronic health challenges, pregnancy, postpartum, separation, and divorce, LGBTQ+ and gender identity, including communication and relationship challenges. I see clients from diverse backgrounds.

My communication style

I am able to provide a comfortable and safe space for Clients to express their feelings and thoughts. My approach is compassionate, accepting, and non-judgmental, which allows people to trust that they are being heard and supported. I offer guidance and direction when needed. I am responsive and use laughter when appropriate.

My journey to mental healthcare

I have always loved talking to people about their lives, history, experiences, passions, dreams, challenges, joys, and sorrows. I feel that relationships are so important for people throughout their lives. I have learned that there are always ways to have healthier relationships through support and communication tools. Life can be very unpredictable and full of the unexpected. The human experience can be amazing and overwhelming. Understanding that it is possible to learn to cope with these times can be extremely life-changing. Changing unhealthy patterns is possible. Therapy supports finding more joy, self-awareness, love for oneself, increased self-esteem, and often positive outcomes. I bring life experience with marriage, divorce, parenting young children to adulthood, grandparenting, as well as various other life adjustments.

My goals for you

Collaboration with clients regarding goal setting is key. Clients are much more invested if they are the main creators of their goals for change. Designing worthwhile and healthy rewards for reaching goals can be a great motivator to progress towards and achieve desired goals.

My first session with you

Typically, a first session includes asking some questions to begin a relationship of trust and identifying the main reasons for coming to therapy at this time. I will provide clients with a safe space to express their main concerns and feelings. Once a client's safety and trust are established, I then give us time to figure out if we are a good fit to continue working together. I want clients to feel supported and heard and then we can progress forward to goals.