Mary Kate Short, LCSW (MO), LSCSW (KS) is a Licensed Clinical Social worker based in Kansas City, MO. She specializes in work with children and parents, along with couples and families. Mary Kate is highly skilled in helping families navigate difficult behavior and disconnection. She provides individual, couples and family counseling at Heartland Therapy Connection. 

I have had the opportunity to work with my clients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools and private practice. These experiences have helped me develop the empathy and understanding my clients seek when coming to therapy. My style is a balance of how-the-brain-works science and optimism knowing that growth and change are possible – I’ve seen it happen! If you are struggling to connect with the people around you, and wonder ‘what’s wrong with me’, you’re not alone. My style is a just-right balance of direct and practical, and warm and empathetic. I’ve been asked about having a magic wand! I create the space for my clients to be themselves, feel safe, heal and grow. 

I can help with: 

• Parent-Child conflict 
• Big feelings and tantrums
• Disconnection in relationships

Who my best fits are: 

• Parents and kiddos
• Couples at any relationship stage
• Families

Mary Kate draws from her 15 years of experience as well as the principles of Narrative Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in her work with clients. She enjoys using Gottman methods (and is Level 1 certified) in her work with couples, and is near completing a year-long training on the Developmental Model for Couples. Mary Kate is certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and is a Registered Play Therapist™. Additionally, Mary Kate provides trauma-informed care for children through Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She knows that life can often be difficult, and is honored to walk alongside her clients as a fellow human. 

Mary Kate offers in-person, telehealth and coaching services, and works with private pay clients. She is happy to help clients determine what is the best path, and if therapy at Heartland Therapy Connection feels like the right fit.