Dr. Kirk J. Honda, PsyD, LMFT

Currently, my primary career is providing psychological content for The Psychology In Seattle Podcast and YouTube Channel. I also have a private practice in Seattle working with individuals, couples and families, and I am a part-time professor at Antioch University Seattle.

Education

Doctorate in Psychology - with a concentration in forensics - Antioch University Seattle - 2014

Master's in Psychology - with a concentration in couple and family therapy - Antioch University Seattle - 1997

Bachelor’s in Business - University of Washington - 1993

Experience

Psychotherapist (in private practice and at various facilities) - 1996 to present

Professor (various roles, including program director) - Antioch University Seattle - 1997 to present

Clinical Supervisor (private and agency) - 1999 to present

I’ve also had various other jobs at a number of facilities, including:

  • Treating convicted perpetrators of domestic violence

  • Working as the head psychology professional at an addictions center

  • Providing in-home family therapy

  • Board president of the non-profit Game To Grow

  • Program director at the university

  • Working as the head psychology professional at a camp for teens

  • Providing expert testimony in court

  • Working as a podcast consultant for other psychology podcasts

  • And so on

Therapeutic Approach

The goal of psychotherapy is to help clients reach their goals, like improving relationships, recovering from trauma, reducing conflict, reducing symptoms of a mental disorder, improving life satisfaction, grieving a loss, finding clarity, discovering parts of the self, etc. In my approach to therapy, rather than adhering to one specific school of thought, I utilize an integrative approach that carefully and thoughtfully selects from several useful models:

  • Attachment theory and relational psychodynamic theory state that people are affected by their early attachment figures.

  • Experiential therapies involve helping individuals and families emote more freely and healthily.

  • Humanistic psychology focuses on the good in people and their growth potential.

  • Systems theory emphasizes that individuals are a part of a larger familial and social system.

  • Feminist theory questions our cultural understandings and advocates for fairness.

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a practical approach to helping in which the therapist helps the client find solutions by changing the way the client thinks and behaves.

This integrative model can include many methods to achieve client goals in therapy, like strengthening close attachments, dismantling toxic cultural indoctrination, increasing psychological awareness, improving emotional regulation, trauma exposure and habituation, personal exploration, improving communication, providing clients with support, psychoeducation, changing one’s narratives and schemas, behavioral changes, and system awareness/adjustment.

Social Justice

As a person of color and advocate for social justice, I consider the impact of culture, privilege, and various forms of oppression (racism, heterosexism, classism, ageism) in assessment and treatment, ensuring a comprehensive and empathetic approach to therapy.

Notable Awards

Family Advocate Award, Changes Parenting Support Network, 2009

Educator of the Year, Washington Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, 2012

Board of Trustees’ Catalysts of Collaboration Award, Antioch University, 2014

Provost’s Recognition Award, Antioch University, 2016