Kat Cagle
APC, NCC, M.Ed.

I'm a certified school counselor and associate licensed professional counselor with a passion for working with preschool and elementary-aged children and their families. I draw from Adlerian and Attachment theory, as I believe relationships and connection are at the heart of the therapeutic process.

I support children and families who are experiencing a wide range of struggles-from those navigating typical developmental concerns to those with more complex challenges.

Some areas of focus include: 

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My approach with children:

Every child has their own story, and my goal is to honor and support that story as they grow. Children have an incredible capacity for resilience and growth—especially when they are surrounded by caring, supportive adults. My role is to create a safe and welcoming space where your child feels truly understood and respected. By tailoring interventions to meet each child’s emotional and developmental needs, I help them build confidence, develop new skills, and navigate challenges—while also partnering with the important adults in their lives to support lasting growth.

 Because play is the natural language of children, I use play-based therapy to help them: Understand, express and manage their feelings in healthy ways, process their experiences, communicate their needs effectively, build empathy and understand how their actions affect others, develop problem-solving skills and creative solutions, gain confidence and a positive sense of self, strengthen their social skills and relationships with others.

 

Partnering with Parents

Through both my career and my own parenting journey, I have developed a deep respect for the crucial role parents play in their child’s growth. Supporting parents is not just part of my role— it is a love and a passion. I understand that seeking therapy for your child can bring uncertainty and requires tremendous vulnerability. I aim to offer reassurance and a sense of hope that life with your child can become calmer, more connected and more joyful. 

Parents and caregivers are an essential part of  the therapeutic process. I work closely with families to create alignment and a strong support system — identifying concerns for their child, their child’s own goals, the family’s needs, and their hopes for the parent-child relationship. Partnering with the family, we set counseling goals and define what success will look like for your family.

 

I bring a nonjudgemental, empathetic approach that respects the unique needs, values, and culture of each family and feels practical. Our work together may focus on: 

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My previous work experience: 

I have nearly 20 years experience working as a school counselor with children, ranging from preschool through middle school. Most of my career has been spent at a private independent school in Atlanta, where I have supported young children and their families. I have had the privilege working with families from diverse backgrounds, including the LGBTQ and international communities. My work has included family consultation, individual counseling with children, small groups sessions and leading parent workshops on a range of topics, such as supporting children through transitions, fostering emotional regulation, parenting in the digital age, navigating difficult conversations and encouraging independence.

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Why I do what I do!

I'm passionate about helping children and families, even if it means my role eventually becomes less needed. Many families feel isolated and overwhelmed by conflicting advice about their child—who they are, who they "should be," and how to best support them. I find joy in helping parents gain a deeper understanding of their child, build a stronger connection with them, and feel more confident in their parenting. I especially love helping children learn who they are, feel a sense of assuredness, and develop the skills they need to thrive. My ultimate goal is to help families strengthen their bonds and cultivate more peace, joy, and resilience so they can truly enjoy their time together. My work is rooted in a genuine delight in children and the belief that every family has the capacity to grow stronger with the right support.

​Outside of therapy, I love spending time with my husband and our three children, who keep life both busy and meaningful. I also enjoy time with friends, discovering new restaurants, listening to podcasts and working on puzzles.