Cate Parker, a seasoned psychotherapist based in Pasadena, California, found herself in the midst of chaos recently. Just as she was settling back into her routine post-holiday season, she and many of her clients were among the tens of thousands of individuals forced to evacuate due to the Eaton Fire that swept through Altadena, a neighboring area.
Parker, who has always harbored a keen interest in treating climate anxiety and grief, was well aware of the inherent risks of living in the fire-prone Los Angeles region. However, the impact of the Eaton Fire, which erupted on January 7, 2025, took her by surprise.
In a conversation with Inside Climate News a week after the fires began, Parker struggled to articulate the emotional toll experienced by her and her community. She emphasized the widespread impact on all Angelinos, not just those directly displaced, and acknowledged her own challenges in processing the situation.
“This feels like a full-circle career moment that I never wanted to have,” Parker somberly reflected.
Parker’s journey into psychotherapy stemmed from her background in climate change and renewable energy. Inspired by a seminar conducted by Mary Annaïse Heglar, the former writer-in-residence at the Earth Institute at Columbia University, on the emotional ramifications of the climate crisis, Parker pursued a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles. This led her to become an associate marriage and family therapist.
### Insights from a Seasoned Therapist
NINA DIETZ: What advice would you offer to Angelinos who might not have access to mental health care?
CATE PARKER: There are numerous resources offering free or low-cost therapy and body work for those affected by the fires in Los Angeles. Somatic work, also known as body work, emphasizes the interconnectedness of mind and body in therapy.
DIETZ: How do you see these fires impacting mental health at the community level?
PARKER: The psychological aspect of trauma is just as important. The disaster response teams and government must prioritize hiring experts in community psychology. The support and connections within the community have been crucial for many displaced individuals in finding temporary accommodations.
### Coping with Trauma and Rebuilding
PARKER: During and after a traumatic event, individuals become dysregulated, with their focus shifting to survival mode. This can make it challenging to concentrate or make decisions, especially for those facing displacement and overwhelming tasks. Reminding oneself of safety and granting grace during this period is crucial for slowly regaining clarity of thought.
DIETZ: What do you hope the government and institutions learn from this?
PARKER: The avoidance of difficult realities, such as the causes of climate change, can have detrimental consequences. By acknowledging and addressing these truths, we can avoid perpetuating systems that ignore climate change and endanger future generations.
### Embracing Community Support and Emotional Wellbeing
PARKER: Supporting affected community members starts with self-care. It’s essential to assess your emotional capacity before offering help. Taking breaks and prioritizing mental health ensures a sustainable support system for those in need.
DIETZ: How do you think this will change the climate conversation in LA?
PARKER: The aftermath of these fires will inevitably alter life for many in Los Angeles. Building climate resilience and social justice into future actions is crucial. Embracing the interconnectedness of humanity and the environment is essential for survival in the face of climate change.
As Parker navigates the complexities of climate anxiety in LA, she emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and processing these emotions. Uncertainty and anxiety are prevalent, and it is essential to find healthy ways to cope and seek relief while also taking action to address the underlying challenges.
By fostering connections, supporting one another, and allowing for moments of grief and joy, individuals can navigate the rebuilding process and find resilience in the face of adversity. The journey ahead is long and challenging, but with collective effort and compassion, the community in Los Angeles can emerge stronger and more prepared for the realities of climate change.
