Kathryn Black, MA

I obtained an MA degree in clinical psychology from the Santa Barbara Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara, California. In addition, I have completed coursework for a PhD in clinical psychology with a specialty in prenatal and perinatal psychology at the institute and am currently working on my dissertation, which is a study of the meanings mothers give to childbirth. I expect to complete my PhD in 2011.

Before formally studying psychology, I spent many years writing books, magazine articles, and essays based in psychological theory. The book In the Shadow of Polio: A Personal and Social History tells the story of my family's encounter with polio. It is also a story of loss, grief, and the impact of illness on families.

In Mothering Without a Map: The Search for the Good Mother Within I address the issues of women who were undermothered in childhood and the impact that can have on their mothering. The book is based in attachment theory and Maslow's hierarchy of needs.

I have been a victim advocate for the Boulder Police Department, a group facilitator for Hospice of Boulder County, and a leader of weekend workshops for divorced and widowed people in San Francisco.

I am trained in the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) approach to psychotherapy and treatment for trauma.

I am also trained in experiential play therapy for children.

I am involved in continuing education regarding current neurobiological studies in early development and their relevance to the practice of psychotherapy.

In addition, I have a B.A. degree in English literature from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and an M.S. degree in journalism from the University of Kansas, Lawrence.