Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Ojai, CA covered by Aetna

Hello, my name is Kateri Ross, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, Davis, and my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Health Psychology from Santa Clara University.

My clinical background includes work in both community mental health and private practice settings, where I have helped individuals manage acute challenges as well as long-standing emotional and behavioral patterns that impact daily functioning and overall well-being.

I specialize in working with adults ages 18 and older experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, postpartum depression and anxiety, binge eating, perfectionism, procrastination, stress management, and life transitions. I also support individuals who struggle with self-critical thinking, guilt, shame, emotional overwhelm, managing stress or difficulty maintaining balance during demanding phases of life.

My journey into therapy began with a deep curiosity about human resilience and the desire to help others find strength through life’s hardest challenges. During my graduate training, I had the opportunity to work with survivors of trauma. This experience showed me the powerful role therapy can play in recovery and solidified my commitment to supporting others through their healing journeys. I’m continually driven by the fundamental belief that everyone has the potential for positive growth and change. Seeing my clients gain confidence or find peace makes my work incredibly rewarding.

I work with adults who are managing anxiety, life transitions, and those seeking support for self-esteem issues. Whether you’re working through trauma, building coping skills, or exploring your personal goals, I’ll work with you to create a plan for growth that feels empowering and achievable. I best serve those who are ready to unearth the uncomfortable. Those who have felt stuck and just need the tools and a safe space to connect back to themselves. Those who have a desire to intentionally sit with the things that are sticky, so that it can stop ruling their life and they can take the reins. Is this you? This work is hard. If you’re ready to face it in a safe way, I’m the person for you.

I bring 14 + years of experience providing thrrapy in both private and clinical settings. My work is grounded in a client centered strengths-based approach, rooted in unconditional, positive regard and a commitment to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where client can openly share their stories.

I identify as neurodivergent and have personally and professionally navigated ADHD. This experience allows me to bring both clinical knowledge lived understanding to my work, helping clients recognize their strengths, develop effective strategies, and move toward meaningful growth and stability.

I am an LCSW with Rula. I provide a warm, supportive, judgment-free space where clients feel heard and understood. My approach is collaborative and individualized, helping clients build coping skills, gain insight, and work toward meaningful change.

As an immigrant woman growing up in America, I have seen and personally experienced the challenges of being a minority woman. Through resiliency and perseverance, I am now the clinical director of an outpatient program at a non-profit. I have been working in the community mental health field serving low-income individuals and families for over 15 years. I specialize in trauma treatment, especially sexual trauma. I use a trauma- and cultural-informed lens to look at the issue.

I'm warm, pleasant, knowledgeable, professional, efficient and approachable.