ABOUT
Kate Gobes
MC, RCC, she/her
Hi, I’m Kate
I’m a white, cis-gender, queer female, that identifies as able-bodied and neurodivergent. I provide services as a counsellor and an academic strategist.
As a counsellor, I aspire to normalize neurodivergence as a welcomed expression of the mind, rather than a disorder. When working with folks, I strive to practice from an anti-oppressive and intersectional feminist lens.
I work alongside folks navigating chronic pain and/or disabilities, as well as queer and trans folks. I can provide affirming support for sex workers, the kink community, and folks in polyamorous relationships.
My work is influenced by the lessons I’ve received in this lifetime, and the many people and beings that have generously shared their wisdom with me. I draw on my education in psychology, my +15 years of experience caring for children and my specialized training in neurodiversity-affirming care to inform my approach that is equal parts reflective, educational and empowering.
When I’m not at work, you can find me connecting with community, dancing, or getting into the woods with my dog, Willow.
I am located on the stolen and unceded traditional and ancestral homelands of the xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Peoples.
Listen to me talk about my neurodivergent journey on the Holy Sh*t I have ADHD podcast
NEURODIVERSITY-AFFIRMInG CARE
Neurodiversity-affirming care is grounded in the neurodiversity paradigm, which views the idea of a "normal brain" as a social construct. It recognizes that all brains and bodies have value, viewing differences as part of natural human diversity, rather than a disorder.
What does this mean for you? It means I’m not going to use CBT as a method to “fix” you. Instead I’ll rely on my neurodivergent-informed education to understand you. I’ll be leaning in with curiosity, offering solidarity in shared struggles, and encouraging self-compassion.
This strengths-based approach encourages you to explore your unique experiences without judgment. It aims to create a supportive space to work through communication challenges between neurodivergent and neurotypical folks, while promoting self-advocacy, cultivating community, and when desired, developing personalized skills or coping tools. As the client, you're at the centre, as the expert of your own life. Together, we'll create a map to help you navigate this neurotypical world a little more easily.
This framework, which I developed during my graduate work, is deeply informed by the courageous activists and advocates standing for autistic, disability, and neurodivergent rights. As a neurodivergent individual, I see this as a deeply political stance against the ongoing counselling approaches that continue to pathologize neurodivergent individuals today. This framework stands on the shoulders of some incredible folks including, but not limited to the work of: Sonny Jane Wise, Dr. Carrie Mitran, Dr. Nick Walker, The Therapist Neurodiversity Collective, Dr. Damian Milton and more recently the work of Dr. Neff and Jennifer Kemp.
Credentials
EDUCATION
Master of Counselling City University of Seattle
BA Psychology Kwantlen Polytechnic University
REGISTRATIONS
Registered Clinical Counsellor
BC Association of Clinical Counsellors
Developing Self-Compassion and Self Acceptance in Neurodivergent Adults: From Chronic Burnout to Living a Valued Life Jennifer Kemp
Ace and Aro Affirming Practice Webinar Laura Guenzel Counselling & Consulting
Internal Family Systems: A Paradigm Shift in Mental Health Derek Scott
Level 1 & 2 Trauma Informed Practice Trauma Informed Practice Institute
Introduction to Jungian Sand Tray Therapy Renee Parker
Recovery for Mental Health Professionals: Helping Clients Heal from Cults, High-Control Groups, and Abusive Relationships Take Back Your Life
After the Cult: Exploring Healthy Relationships for LGBQA+ Individuals ICSA
The Cult Pseudo Identity and the Phases of Recovery and Growth ICSA
The Impact of Yesterday on our relationships today ICSA
THERAPEUTIC TRAINING
What is Narrative Practice? The Dulwich Centre
Foundations of Narrative Theory and Practice Certification Vancouver School For Narrative Therapy
Trauma-Informed Mental Health Care for Neurodivergent Populations Therapist Neurodiversity Collective
Planning and Delivering Neurodiversity- Affirming Therapy A Skills Framework for Therapists Jennifer Kemp
ADDITIONAL TRAINING
We Keep Each Other Safe: Suicide Intervention Carly Boyce
LivingWorks Start LivingWorks
Skillfully Responding to Distress The Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre
Crisis Services Responder Training The Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre
Fundamentals of Compassionate Communication (Non-violent communication) Jenna Card
Mindful Self-Compassion Group KPU
Intra-Personal Alignment Workshop
Jelena Marda
Intro to Embodiment Workshop 5Rhythms
