About Katherine

katherine mata, acsw

Associate Clinical Social Worker

California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA)

Azusa Pacific University (APU).

Katherine is an empathetic and dedicated Associate Clinical Social Worker specializing in infant and early childhood (0-8 yrs old) mental health in both English and Spanish. With training in early childhood development, attachment theory, and trauma-informed care, Katherine is passionate about helping families build secure, healthy connections from birth onward.

Currently pursuing licensure in the field, Katherine has worked with infants, toddlers, and young children facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, trauma, depression, attachment difficulties, and grief. By collaborating closely with parents and caregivers, Katherine provides evidence-based therapeutic techniques and guidance to strengthen the parent-child bond and foster emotional regulation and resilience in the early years of life.

Katherine holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA), and a Masters of Art degree in Social work with a specialization in Clinical Practice with Individuals and Families from Azusa Pacific University (APU). Before joining The Center for Connection, Katherine served as a mental health therapist for a community mental health clinic working with school-aged children, adolescents, teens, and transitional age youth (TAY). 

In addition to one-on-one and dyadic therapy, Katherine also provides parenting support, guidance on promoting secure attachment, and strategies for fostering emotional regulation in children. Katherine is passionate about early intervention and believes in the power of supporting families during the critical first years of life to set the foundation for lifelong emotional and mental well-being.

During her downtime, Katherine practices self-care by volunteering at her local church, taking Pilates classes, and watching her favorite TV shows with her dog, Cooper.  

Associate Clinical Social Worker #115499

Supervised by Annalise Kordell, LCSW #28268