About Kiersten Kotaka, LMFT

What Sets Me Apart

Neurodivergent & LGBTQ+ Affirming: I create a welcoming, non-judgmental space where your identity and unique wiring are honored and celebrated.
Practical Skill Building: Together, we develop tools and routines that fit your life and help reduce overwhelm, build emotional clarity, and increase ease.
Trauma-Sensitive & Compassionate: I provide gentle, respectful support that prioritizes safety and empowerment at every step. My approach centers on understanding overwhelm as a natural nervous system response—not a personal failing.
Flexible & Collaborative: Therapy is tailored to your goals and pace—whether you’re juggling work, caregiving, or life transitions. In-person appointments are available in my Corte Madera office in Marin County or via telehealth sessions with anyone located in California.

Therapy is a big step—I get it. That's why I offer a free consultation. It's just a conversation, not a commitment.

Hi, I’m Kiersten Kotaka (she/her), a licensed therapist (LMFT #121908) based in Marin County, CA. I started seeing clients in 2004 and support individuals and families through both everyday challenges and acute moments of crisis. My background includes school counseling, nonprofits and I bring a steady, compassionate presence to my work with adults navigating stress, burnout, loss, and emotional overwhelm.

In 2021, I founded Marin Youth Therapy, (marinyouththerapy.com) a practice offering compassionate, developmentally informed evidence based care for children and families.

In my practice with adults, I work with people who are managing complex mental health issues, relationship stress, life transitions, grief, or a sense of being stuck or disconnected. I also specialize in supporting individuals through mental health crises and stabilization—whether that’s an acute emotional episode, a traumatic event, or a major life disruption. I’ve provided crisis response and debriefing for schools and community organizations, and I understand how critical it is to feel safe, grounded, and not alone during moments of emotional intensity. Together, we focus on building safety first, then developing insight, coping skills, and long-term support strategies.

Clinically, I integrate a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach with training in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). These evidence-based tools help clients manage intense emotions, increase distress tolerance, and take meaningful steps toward a more purposeful, authentic life. I also draw from mindfulness, somatic awareness, and attachment theory to support healing on multiple levels.

I hold a Master’s in Counseling Psychology, a PPS Credential in School Counseling, and certifications in Crisis Response (ICISF), AutPlay Therapy, and Social Emotional Arts Facilitation.

Whether you’re working to heal from past trauma, stabilize your current situation, or reconnect with what matters most, I offer a warm, grounded space to do that work.

Fees

I offer transparent pricing of $235 for a 45-minute session. Upon request, I can provide superbills for you to submit to your insurance provider.