Meet the Therapist
Hello there, I'm Katherine Blake (she/her), the founder of Golden Crest Counseling, LLC. I'm really glad you're here. Let's get to know each other a little better...
What is something most people would be surprised to know about you?
Most people would be surprised to know that I am Japanese. As a biracial Asian counselor who is "White-passing," I'm especially passionate about helping clients explore their own identities across cultures. Developing a sense of connection, community, and belonging is an integral part of the work I do while establishing relationships with my clients. I am also bilingual in Spanish. When I was in college, I attended the Costa Rica Language Academy and lived in San José during the World Cup.
What do you love to do when you are not counseling?
I am obsessed with bouldering (indoor rock climbing) and go every weekend. I love that it is an inclusive space where everyone is welcome, and bouldering has taught me many life lessons. It has been a creative way for me to experience mindfulness, combat perfectionism, and learn resilience.
What is something that brings you joy?
I have always found peace and connection with nature, so exploring the trails around the lake where I live is so exciting! My favorite thing to do is to look for all the wild critters during my walks and runs outside (especially the beaver). I also love to travel, and will paint photos of the landscapes I've visited at various national parks.
What are some of your favorite things?
My favorite colors are fuschia, magenta, and royal blue. However, when I was a kid my favorite color was "rainbow," because I loved the vibrancy of them all together. As a self-proclaimed foodie, my go-to is either a bacon cheeseburger with fries or any kind of pasta (especially mac and cheese). I am also a fiercely competitive person, and love playing Catan with my friends.
What are your credentials as a mental health therapist?
I am a nationally certified counselor (NCC), professional school counselor, and founder of Golden Crest Counseling, LLC. As a licensed graduate professional counselor (LGPC) in Maryland, I am also under the supervision of Laura Morlok, LCPC (License No. LC4646), RPT-S. This means that I consult with an expert in order to provide the best therapeutic interventions and evidence-based counseling to my clients. Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor, Maryland, LGP14036 (2023) Nationally Certified Counselor, National Board for Certified Counselors, 1726826 (2023)​
Working Together...
My goal is to help your child feel proud of their authentic self and to help them learn how to create meaningful and healthy connections throughout their life. As someone who is experienced in working with BIPOC, multicultural, and LGBTQIA+ youth (and their families), I always seek to create a safe and inclusive space through my direct and genuine approach to counseling.
About Me.
Education
& Background
I earned my degree in Elementary and Special Education from Mount St. Mary's University, and completed my Master's degree in Counseling at Hood College. My experience working as a teacher motivated me to pursue my passion for building relationships with all of the students in my community as a professional school counselor.
Approach
& Interventions
As a therapist, it is very important to me that each and every child be supported and that their unique self is celebrated! I will focus on validating your child's identity by supporting their individual strengths and needs through a holistic lens. My interventions are research-based, which focus on the relationship between the brain, body, behaviors, and our emotions. My integrative approach uses a variety of techniques from Adlerian therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Typically, our sessions will incorporate art, games, and engaging activities in order to teach your child the valuable coping tools and strategies that they need. These interactive strategies will help your child learn to engage in safer behaviors, express their needs, and regulate their emotions.
Experience
& Expertise
​I have experience working with children, preteens, and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, depression, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD), and trauma. I've also worked with caregivers and families to help their child(ren) navigate experiences such as bullying, divorce and family changes, emotional and behavioral difficulties, friendship and social skills, grief and loss, neurodiversity, racism, and school-related concerns. Before working in the school setting, I supported children in crisis through Frederick's Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) at Brook Lane.