About Kathy

Kathy O'Connell, LMHC, CRC                  

Kathy O’Connell is one of the country’s leading advocates for helping people, particularly with disabilities, create healthy romantic relationships and sexual identities through her unique methodology of increasing self-esteem.

Kathy, who lives with Cerebral Palsy, educates about “Sexual Ableism,” a social discrimination that causes individuals with disabilities to falsely believe they are not worthy of a beautiful, healthy romantic relationship. Much of what Kathy teaches about self-esteem, confidence, and dating can be applied to anyone dating, with or without a disability. Kathy teaches and promotes inclusive dating.

Kathy is host of the Dating, Relationship and Disability podcast. She has created online courses and memberships to support dating with a disability. Kathy speaks at conferences and organizations throughout the States.

Kathy lives with Cerebral Palsy and is happily married and has a son. Listen to the story of her first date with her husband, which spurred her work in dating and relationships.

Kathy has two Masters degrees in Rehabilitation Counseling and Inclusive Education from Syracuse University.

Kathy has been acknowledged by the Cerebral Palsy Association of New York for her achievements. She received the Merit Award for Excellence from Syracuse University and has been named a Person of Distinction by New York State Developmental Disability Planning Council.

Kathy is the author of the book Firewalk: Embracing Different Abilities  about facing challenges inherent to living with a disability and pursuing the life you want.

Kathy is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York (LHMC) and has worked with both people with and without disabilities for nearly 30 years.