Kimberly Matthews, MA, LCPC

Support Programs Coordinator

My approach is client-centered and collaborative. I believe you are the expert regarding what you need from therapy. I enjoy the transformative power of therapy that is sometimes realized just by saying out loud what can spin in our heads. As your therapist, not only will I listen, but I also ask questions to help you explore thoughts, emotions, and personal values, with the goal of better understanding your strengths and challenges. When navigating a cancer diagnosis or bereavement, we might also discuss practical matters of how to navigate this experience.

I frequently incorporate polyvagal theory into my practice as a framework to help clients understand and experience their mind- body connection and realize their ability to regulate emotions. This practice of learning to be flexible in one’s nervous system allows people to recognize and expand their resilience.

During my long career at Cancer Wellness Center, I have found that I particularly enjoy working with groups. Sometimes that means supporting a couple or family as they learn to navigate the cancer experience together. That might also be facilitating a support group where the group members often feel less alone when in community with others who are going through something similar.

Kim Matthews has been a member of the Center’s staff since 1998. She received her MA in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University.