Katie Banks

Growing up in New York state, I had always wanted to change the world and help people. From a very young age, I remember getting a “doctor” gift for my birthday with the plastic stethoscope, and the “doctor Katie” printed on the jacket. After “listening” to my mother’s heart, I sat her down and said “mommy, how are you today?”. As I got older and the topic of psychology and neuroscience were explained to me, I began becoming fascinated with the brain and specifically the mind. I am also a dancer and dance teacher, and dance and physical movement have always been such a big part of my life. It made complete sense to me to use dance as an emotional outlet. This was my savior throughout any and all hardships I’ve faced. I love spreading my passion for the art of dance and the emotional release it has, so it made perfect sense to start to marry the two worlds together: psychology and dance. This led me to gain an Associates degree in Humanities with emphasis in performing arts, specifically dance. Then onto my Bachelor’s where I studied psychology with an emphasis on neuroscience. From there, I took a bold risk and moved across the country to San Diego and attended University of San Diego for my Masters degree in Counseling, specialization Clinical Mental Health. While at USD, I received my Practicum placement at an organization that works with Tribally enrolled and Tribally affiliated Native Americans/Alaska Natives where I have been able to further explore my passion for holistic counseling and alternative forms of counseling such as incorporating dance and movement into sessions. I take a very Person-Centered approach where I allow you, the client to be the guide, as you are the expert in your life and I am here to help you walk on that path and decide what works best for you. I draw from various therapeutic interventions including Gestalt theory, neurobiology, EFT, Attachment theory, Mindfulness based practices, CBT and DBT. I utilize play therapy with younger clients and with those who are interested in physical movement. I hope through our work together, you gain a sense of grounded self, peace within your world, and new perspectives that will support and advance your growth and healing.