Kat Skalski, LCSW-C

I’m a Licensed Certified Social Worker–Clinical (LCSW-C) based in Maryland with 4 years of clinical experience. I work with young adults and adults who are ready to stop “just surviving” and start building a life that actually feels worth living (yes, straight out of DBT’s playbook, and for good reason).

Therapy with me is collaborative, practical, and a little bit real. I’ll bring evidence-based tools (like DBT skills) to the table, and you’ll bring your goals, your story, and your sense of humor—even if it’s slightly dark, that’s fine too. Together, we’ll figure out how to manage the tough stuff—stress, anxiety, messy relationships, big life transitions—while also moving toward a version of life that feels more grounded, meaningful, and you.

I’m not the “sit silently and nod” kind of therapist. I’ll challenge you when it’s helpful, celebrate your wins (big or small), and remind you that growth doesn’t mean perfection—it means progress. My hope is that our work together gives you both the coping skills and the confidence to live with more ease, connection, and self-trust.

Fun facts about me!

I am a cat mom of 2 fur babies (shout out Ozzy and Blaze ❤️)

My favorite foods are pizza and sushi

I love to read, binge watch tv series, and travel

My favortie self-care activities include a warm bath and true crime podcasts

I did say I’m here for the dark stuff — in podcasts and in therapy.

Safety is not a luxury in therapy — it’s the soil where change takes root.

My Therapy Values

Connection
Therapy works best when it feels real. Not stiff. Not clinical. Not “so how does that make you feel?” on repeat. I believe meaningful change happens in authentic connection—where you feel safe enough to be fully yourself (dark and messy parts included).

Empathy
No judgment. No shaming. No “you should just…” energy. I’m here to understand your experience from the inside out and meet you with compassion, curiosity, and respect.

Understanding
Your life exists within a broader context—family, culture, identity, and systems all matter. I approach therapy with curiosity and respect, recognizing that each person’s experiences are shaped by unique circumstances.

Ethics
Therapy isn’t just vibes — it’s guided by clear professional ethics and standards. Your privacy, autonomy, and wellbeing aren’t just priorities — they’re protected by the professional rules that shape how I practice.

Social Justice
Mental health is personal and political. Systems impact wellbeing. I’m committed to culturally responsive, affirming care and ongoing learning so therapy feels empowering—not pathologizing. Everyone deserves access to support that honors who they are.

My Therapeutic Approach

I utilize an integrative and electric approach to therapy focusing on YOU -the client- as the captain of our ship. I shape our work around what is most important, supportive, and meaningful to you. I strive to create a space that feels safe, collaborative, and non-judgmental.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) - A practical, skills-based approach that helps people manage intense emotions, reduce overwhelm, and improve relationships. Developed by psychologist Marsha M. Linehan, DBT combines mindfulness with proven coping strategies to create real-life change.

In DBT, you’ll learn skills in four key areas:

  • Mindfulness – staying present and grounded

  • Distress Tolerance – getting through crises without making things worse

  • Emotion Regulation – understanding and managing intense feelings

  • Interpersonal Effectiveness – communicating clearly and setting healthy boundaries

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) - An evidence-based approach that helps you build a meaningful life—even in the presence of stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions. Rather than trying to eliminate painful thoughts or feelings, ACT helps you change your relationship to them, clarify what truly matters to you, and take practical steps toward the life you want.

Mindfulness-based Therapy - An approach that helps you slow down, become more present, and respond to stress with greater awareness and intention. This approach teaches you how to observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment rather than becoming overwhelmed by them. By strengthening present-moment awareness, mindfulness-based therapy can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and help you feel more grounded and balanced in daily life.

Person-Centered Therapy- A warm, collaborative approach that trusts in your natural capacity for growth and healing with emphasis on empathy, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard. Rather than directing or “fixing” you, I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly. Through this process, many people experience greater self-understanding, confidence, and clarity about the changes they want to make.

If you’re into the details, here’s a peek at the evidence-based approaches I use in session:

Credentials

Licensed Certified Social Worker – Clinical, Maryland Board of Social Work (2023)

DBT Intensive Training, Behavioral Tech Institute (2022)

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