About Katie

Katie Mukai, PhD 

Registered Psychological Associate

Dr. Katie Mukai is a postdoctoral fellow with extensive experience in neuropsychological assessment and therapeutic practice across the lifespan. Specializing in providing assessment services to adults with questions regarding ADHD, Autism, learning differences, mood disorders, medical complexities (e.g., hydrocephalus, multiple sclerosis), and traumatic brain injury/concussion, Dr. Mukai approaches her work with a deeply neuro-affirming and holistic perspective that allows for an appreciation of each client’s unique personhood. Such an approach emphasizes clarity, compassion, and real-world applicability—conducting comprehensive evaluations that inform diagnosis, support planning, and personal growth and well-being.

In therapy, Dr. Mukai enjoys working with adolescents as well as adults in any stage of life and is extremely passionate about working alongside folks who are queer, BIPOC, neurodivergent, and/or gifted, as well as people living with disabilities (both visible and invisible), anxiety, depression, attachment wounds, trauma, grief, and relationship issues. She draws from her in-depth training in a variety of therapeutic modalities (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy) and individualizes therapy in collaboration with clients to meet their unique needs and neurocognitive styles. Dr. Mukai also specializes in executive function skills coaching with individuals from all walks of life to help them develop skills related to organization, time management, and planning/prioritizing so they can meet their goals. She is currently in the process of earning her certification as a Therapeutic Game Master in order to use role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons in therapeutic group settings to foster social connection, communication skills, emotion regulation, and self-esteem.

She earned a B.A. in Psychology from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, as well as M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in Clinical Psychology (Neuropsychology Track) from the Fuller Graduate School of Psychology right here in Pasadena. Dr. Mukai completed her predoctoral internship at the Southern Oregon VA and is the process of completing her postdoctoral fellowship at the Center for Connection, having previously also received postdoctoral training at a private practice in Pasadena specializing in neuropsychological assessment as well as therapy. As a local who was born and raised in LA, Dr. Mukai spends much of her free time soaking up the Southern California sun by hiking, camping, surfing, cycling, and going for walks with her dog, Teddy. She and her wife also spend time indoors with their 3 cats and enjoy playing video games, board games, Magic the Gathering, and Dungeons & Dragons—if it’s a game, they’ll play it!