At PCH, we prefer to put names and faces to the philosophy guiding our approach whenever possible. To better accomplish that, we will begin sharing the firsthand perspectives of the people behind our treatment programs with monthly staff interviews.

Read more of our conversation with Individual Therapist, Kate Carnahan LMFT, CAATC IV, and the five questions about her guiding philosophy and principles.

1. What does “mental health” mean to you? 

To me mental health or wellness is the intersection of emotional, spiritual, physical and mental wellness. It means being in harmony within ourselves and feeling in balance. Mental health is the ability to be flexible when life throws us a curveball and having a toolkit full of coping skills to help us deal with whatever comes our way because life is unpredictable.

2. What’s your favorite mental health or well being quote?

“The strongest people are those who win battles we know nothing about.”

3. What do you do to take care of your own mental health needs?

The biggest things for me are having a supportive group of people in my life who I can lean on, being physically active, travelling and taking time to relax when I need it.

4. What’s your dream vacation?

I have several dream vacations on my bucket list! I love to travel and explore new places and learn about different cultures. I have 3 trips in particular that I hope to go on in the next several years. I really want to go to Australia and New Zealand, Greece and Turkey, and a winter trip to Budapest, Vienna and Prague to see the Christmas Markets.

5. What do you typically like to do when you’re not at PCH?

When I am not at PCH I enjoy spending time with family and friends, hanging out with my dogs Kali and Leo, traveling, snowboarding, hiking and doing yoga.