About Me

I am a licensed psychoanalytic psychologist and author of The Psychoanalytic Anatomy of Surrender: Breaking Through the Inner Structures That Inhibit Aliveness. I earned my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies and have more than twenty-five years of clinical experience.

Throughout my career, I have been interested in the ways people become constrained by patterns they do not fully understand. Many individuals seek therapy because they find themselves repeating the same difficulties in relationships, work, self-esteem, or emotional life despite their best efforts to change. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy offers an opportunity to explore these patterns in depth and develop a deeper understanding of oneself.

My approach emphasizes free association—the process of speaking openly about whatever comes to mind. Through this exploration, unexpected connections often emerge, revealing aspects of experience that may have remained outside of awareness. As understanding deepens, new possibilities for growth, freedom, and aliveness can begin to unfold.

I work with adults from diverse backgrounds, including professionals, healthcare providers, therapists, veterans, and individuals seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and their lives.

Dr. Rickard is the founder of Kathryn Rickard, Psy.D., PLLC, a telehealth psychotherapy practice serving adults in Vermont and participating PsyPACT states.

I believe that people possess an innate drive toward greater self-understanding. Even when we feel stuck, discouraged, or caught in painful repetitions, there is often a part of us striving toward growth.

Psychological suffering frequently arises not only from difficult experiences themselves, but from the ways we attempt to manage, avoid, or make sense of them. Given the space to reflect openly and honestly, people often discover meanings, conflicts, and possibilities that were previously hidden from view.

Therapy is not simply about reducing symptoms. It is about developing a richer relationship with oneself and, in doing so, creating the conditions for a more meaningful and fully lived life.

The first step is a consultation, which provides an opportunity for us to discuss your concerns, answer questions, and determine whether working together feels like a good fit.

Some people seek therapy to address a specific difficulty, while others are interested in a deeper exploration of recurring patterns in their lives and relationships. The consultation allows us to consider what you are looking for and whether my approach is likely to be helpful.

All appointments are conducted through secure telehealth. I am licensed in Vermont and authorized to practice telepsychology in participating PsyPACT states, allowing me to work with patients across much of the United States.

If we decide to move forward, we will discuss recommendations for treatment and begin establishing a framework for our work together.