Kathryn Shumate , LPC

Kathryn Shumate is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) practicing in Virginia with 40 years of professional experience. She has extensive experience supporting people facing addictions, LGBTQ+ related concerns, trauma and abuse, and the emotional challenges of grief and loss. Her work also addresses caregiver stress, communication difficulties, forgiveness, post-traumatic stress, self-love, and issues commonly affecting women.

Using a compassionate, client-centered stance, she creates an open, nonjudgmental space where thoughts and feelings can be explored honestly. She emphasizes listening, empathy, and collaboration so each person can find approaches that fit their values and goals. Kathryn views seeking help as a courageous first step toward a more fulfilling life and focuses on empowering clients as they navigate change.

Her practice is oriented toward practical coping strategies and emotional healing, helping individuals build resilience and clearer communication while processing loss, trauma, or life transitions. Kathryn supports both short-term goals and deeper personal work, meeting clients where they are and helping them move toward greater well-being.

Client-Centered Approaches and Flexible Online Care

The core of Kathryn Shumate's work is Client-Centered Therapy, an approach that focuses on empathic listening, genuine regard, and supporting clients as they explore their own solutions. This method helps people who are managing addictions, processing trauma, coping with grief, or navigating life transitions by emphasizing personal insight and self-directed growth.

Within the client-centered framework, Kathryn uses person-focused techniques that prioritize understanding each individual's experience and goals. These techniques are helpful for improving communication, addressing caregiver stress, and strengthening self-compassion. Treatment is collaborative - the therapist and client work together to determine which strategies fit the client's needs, goals, and preferences.

Online therapy with Kathryn offers practical flexibility and accessibility. Clients can choose video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to fit work, family, and travel schedules. This range of options makes it easier to maintain continuity of care, access timely support, and participate in therapy from locations that are convenient for the client.