Kenneth Shigematsu
Seasoned LCSW focused on practical change
LCSW California
- Experience
- 35 years in practice
- Focus areas
- Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Self esteem
- Approaches
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy
- Languages
- English
About Kenneth
Kenneth Shigematsu is a California-licensed LCSW with 35 years of professional experience helping people navigate stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. He draws on a background working with LGBTQ concerns, self-esteem and confidence struggles, and motivation-related issues to support clients in finding workable paths forward.
Background and approach
He also has experience with a wide range of related challenges such as caregiver stress, codependency, grief, gender dysphoria, and concerns tied to alternative sexual cultures. His practice emphasizes the client’s own expertise about their life, building on existing strengths to confront difficult circumstances.
Kenneth approaches therapy with respect for each person’s story and encourages courageous first steps toward greater fulfillment. He blends practical, goal-oriented techniques with attentive listening to help clients clarify priorities, develop coping skills, and make meaningful change.
Clients can expect a collaborative process that balances problem-solving tools with a supportive therapeutic relationship. Kenneth offers multiple session formats to accommodate different needs and schedules while tailoring his approach to the concerns and goals each person brings to therapy.
Approaches and Online Options for Practical Change
Kenneth often uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people identify unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and practice concrete strategies to reduce anxiety, lift mood, and improve daily functioning. He also employs Client-Centered Therapy, focusing on empathic listening and supporting clients as they discover their own answers and build confidence to make changes. Motivational Interviewing may be integrated when clients want help clarifying values and strengthening motivation for specific goals.Finding the right mix of approaches is a collaborative process. Kenneth works with each person to assess needs, preferences, and goals, and then tailors interventions so they fit the individual’s life and pace. He values client expertise and partners with clients to revise plans as progress unfolds.
Online sessions are offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to increase flexibility and accessibility. These formats allow scheduling across busy days, permit shorter check-ins as needed, and make it easier to maintain continuity when life circumstances change. The variety of options helps clients choose how to engage in therapy in ways that suit their routines and comfort levels.
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does Kenneth work with?
What is his therapeutic style like?
How much experience does he bring to therapy?
Where is he licensed and what credentials does he hold?
Does he offer services in languages other than English or to international clients?
What session formats are available?
How are fees and payments handled?
What should I do to begin working together?
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
35+ years
Licensed
California
Languages
English