Kitama Cahill-Jackson is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of New York and an adjunct professor at Columbia University. Kitama uses his straightforward nature and his sense of humor to connect with clients, particularly those who often feel misunderstood and struggle with remaining confident in tough situations. He sees therapy as a place where passionate, driven people come to learn how to cope with challenging emotions.

As a multi-racial black man of Japanese, African-American and Caucasian ancestry raised by artists in a rural community, Kitama thinks deeply about multifaceted identity development. As a result of both personal and professional experiences Kitama is a clinician who enjoys helping his clients develop pride and appreciation for the ways they may be different from, and linked to, the people in their lives.

 Kitama is also passionate about treating neurodivergent teens and adults, and making modifications to DBT skills in order to facilitate accessibility for neurodivergent clients. Kitama enjoys helping clients to identify when neurodivergence may be contributing to anxiety, self-judgment and difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, and   he believes it is important to help  recently diagnosed clients understand and accept their unique way of thinking and moving through the world.

Prior to becoming a therapist, Kitama was a documentary filmmaker & journalist, where he learned how to help people create their own narrative. Kitama draws on his extensive background in evidence-based treatment such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help people explore and be proud of their unique personal narratives, identities and emotional lives.

In addition to his work with adults, Kitama works well with children and families. Kitama has particular expertise in working with suicidal teens, trans-racial adoptees, and adolescent boys.