Cathy Nau , LMHC

Cathy Nau is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Washington with 29 years of clinical experience supporting people through major life transitions and everyday challenges. She begins by offering practical support and relief, then helps clients define clear goals and take manageable first steps toward change. Her approach is grounded in warmth, respect, and collaboration, and she draws on a range of evidence-based methods to meet clients where they are.

Cathy has worked with individuals facing depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss - including pet loss - eating and food-related issues, trauma and abuse, ADHD, and challenges related to career and caregiving. Her background includes providing counseling services across the United States and overseas in military and family life settings, and she brings experience assisting clients of varied ages and life stages.

As an LMHC, Cathy holds a professional license to provide mental health counseling in Washington and uses proven techniques such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy, and client-centered methods. She emphasizes small, achievable steps and honors each person’s courage as they work toward their goals.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Cathy integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and client-centered approaches to support people in online therapy. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps clients notice difficult thoughts and feelings while committing to actions that align with their values - it can be useful for anxiety, stress, and life transitions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thinking patterns and developing practical skills to change thoughts and behaviors, which is often effective for depression, anxiety, and coping with daily challenges. Client-centered therapy emphasizes empathy, nonjudgmental listening, and collaboration so clients feel heard and supported as they explore goals and options.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Cathy works with each person to assess needs, preferences, and goals, and she adapts methods over time so therapy fits the individual rather than forcing a single model.

Online sessions with Cathy are offered by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging to provide flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care, fit sessions into busy lives, and access licensed professionals from home or work.