Hello! I’m Kate Stonehouse, a lifelong animal lover who likes to joke that I learned to ride a horse before I could ride a bike. My journey has been profoundly shaped by personal experiences with equine-assisted therapy, and I’m beyond thrilled to be combining my passion for animals with my professional counseling path here at Finding Hiawatha.

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I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Adams State University in Colorado and will graduate in May 2026. My academic journey began with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography from the University of California, Santa Cruz in 2011. Prior to entering the counseling field, I worked as an infant photographer in hospitals, a family portrait photographer, a Montessori infant teacher, and a nanny. These roles have deeply informed my counseling style—creative, nurturing, and responsive to each individual’s unique story.

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I approach therapy through a creative lens, integrating art-informed therapy, sand tray, play therapy, animal-assisted therapy, and traditional talk therapy. I am drawn to Existential, Humanistic, and Person-Centered approaches, which center on the belief that healing comes from within and that therapy can help clients reconnect with their inner strength and sense of purpose. As a counselor, I see myself as a guide—helping clients grow in self-awareness, feel empowered, and move toward a more authentic life.

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Animals offer a unique and powerful form of support in the therapeutic space. They naturally embody unconditional positive regard and have an incredible ability to mirror our internal emotional states. This kind of nonverbal feedback often helps clients connect with themselves on a deeper level, unlocking insight and healing that words alone cannot reach.

When I’m not counseling or studying, I enjoy spending time with my two children, my sisters and their families, and my sweet dachshund puppy, Fern. I love printmaking, photography, camping, gardening, and soaking up the sunshine at any opportunity.