In Focus Article - Kelowna Now

What is your name? Dr. Kathy Keating, Registered Psychologist

Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna? I am originally from Newfoundland and I have lived in Kelowna for three years now.

What is your favourite activity? Since moving to BC, I would have to say cycling. I love mountain biking on the amazing trail networks we have right here in the valley.

What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you? I am honestly inspired everyday by the patients I work with. Through their individual stories and our work together, they teach me important lessons about resilience, strength, empathy and kindness.

Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community? I volunteer with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Kelowna branch. I have been involved in various CMHA events including Ride Don't Hide and Women and Wellness, and I am also on the CMHA Mental Health Voices Committee. This committee is responsible for evaluating local businesses for their mentally healthy workplace practices. Each year we present mentally healthy workplace awards to both large and small scale businesses here in Kelowna.

If you could change one thing in the world what would it be? This is tough. There are so many potential answers to this question. If we lived in a world where all countries and communities had access to effective and efficient health care, clean drinking water and food - that would be a good place to start.

What is your favourite activity in Kelowna? Mountain Biking.

Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone? Smith Creek or Rose Valley mountain bike trails are beautiful and peaceful places to spend an afternoon. A solo road ride down on the waterfront in Peachland isn't a bad idea either.

Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why? I hope everyday that I can contribute to a mentally healthy Kelowna. I would love to see and hear more open discussions about mental health. Less stigma and a deeper understanding of mental illness will help us as individuals, and as a community.

If you were granted one wish for work or in life, what would it be? Simply, good health. In my business I know first hand that life circumstances and mental and physical health can change so quickly and unexpectedly. If I am able to maintain good health I will consider myself very fortunate.

Tell us something that not everyone may know about you. I can have a thick Newfoundland accent at times but, I dial it down at work so that most people can understand me.

What is the name of your business/organization? Keating Psychological Services.

What does your business do? I am a psychologist and I provide psychological assessment and treatment services to adults.

Why did you get into/start this business? I wanted to learn more about how the human mind worked and why people do the things they do. It is such an interesting field and there is quite literally never a boring day at the office.

What is the goal of your business? To help individuals in the community work through their mental health challenges and enhance their well-being.

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