Kara Cantu
I’m a licensed professional clinical counselor who started her degree at the University of South Florida. I’ve worked from treatment assistant to supervisor. I have worked with those suffering with substance use disorders, trauma and panic disorders and even parents of children with special needs. My goal is to help people learn real time tools to help manage intense emotions and overcome pervasive patterns that prevent healthy relationships. Since I have worked in the social services for over 20 years, I have a wealth of knowledge. Asking for help is a first step toward a better understanding and improved functioning.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
During our first visit you’ll decide where you’d like to start on your journey toward wholeness. We’ll complete your evaluation and your treatment plan.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
Having worked with a diverse population as well those with dual diagnosis I have the ability to help you, the client, in multiple areas; anxiety, depression, trauma, transitions, relationships and even early intervention or parenting.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
If you’re ready to make changes and are open to new ideas, then you’ll have a great start towards freedom from old patterns and real time skills to reduce your distress.
Specialties
Top specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Grief
Other specialties
ADHD
Coping Skills
Depression
LGBTQ
Life Transitions
Parenting
Sex Addiction
Spirituality
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
I identify as
Woman
Serves ages
Adults (18 to 64)
Elders (65 and above)
Licensed in
Ohio
Accepts
Aetna
Aetna - Allied Benefits
Aetna - Luminare
Aetna - Moda
Aetna - WebTPA
Aetna – HealthEZ
All Savers
Ambetter Health
Amerihealth Administrators
Arlo
AvMed
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Anthem
Independence Blue Cross
Independence Administrators
Cash - $180 per session
Centivo
Cigna
Cigna - HealthEZ
EAP:Cigna
EAP:Evernorth
EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum
Evernorth
GTEB
Golden Rule
Harvard Pilgrim/UnitedHealthcare
Medical Mutual of Ohio
UnitedHealthcare/Optum
Optum
OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions
Oscar
Oxford
Surest (formerly Bind)
Tufts Health/Cigna
United Medical Resources
UnitedHealthcare Life Insurance
UnitedHealthcare Shared Services
UnitedHealthcare StudentResources
Location
Virtual
My treatment methods
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I use this approach to help clients manage emotions and as a foundation prior to processing any trauma.
EMDR
I use this approach only if needed and for clients with significant trauma.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
This approach works best with many clients with existential crisis and dysfunctional/circular patterns such as DV, SUD, Gambling etc in combination with basic CBT
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I’ve used this approach for the longest with those who have SUD or other compulsive behaviors such as pornography.
Motivational Interviewing
I’ve used this approach w client centered to build initial rapport with those primarily seeing me for career or transitional issues.
4 ratings with written reviews
December 23, 2025
In my first session with her I opened up and explored my past. Very supportive and helpful in terms of regulating my emotions. I can't wait to see what else she has for me.
Verified client, age 25-34
May 21, 2025
What a great therapist! Wonderful listener and made me feel heard!!!
Verified client, age 35-44
April 2, 2025
Great insight and ideas to help