Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 17 ratings

Karen Distefano

LCSW, 20 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm
Virtual
Next available on

About me

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Connecticut. Over the last twenty years, I have enjoyed working with children and families in out-patient and school settings and with adults who were struggling with significant mental health concerns as a Partial Hospitalization Program Coordinator and Group Leader. I have experience working with a diverse range of ages and backgrounds, and I often pull from different therapy modalities, tailoring to the unique needs and learning styles for the individual.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

Our first session will focus on information gathering and getting to know one another. We will review relevant history before getting into the deeper questions about what is bringing you to therapy while identifying your treatment goals.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

The most fundamental principle of DBT is that acceptance and change are compatible! I meet clients where they are- without judgment, but with compassion. I guide clients through their personal challenges and help them develop more effective coping strategies and skills to navigate life's complexities.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

Participating in therapy isn't easy, but my clients are willing to work as hard as I do! We will be solution-focused and ready to explore healthy and realistic alternatives to maladaptive coping skills.

Specialties

Top specialties

AnxietyDepression

Other specialties

Military/VeteransTrauma and PTSD

I identify as

Serves ages

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Cognitive Behavior Therapy focuses on identifying how unhelpful thinking distortions combined with learned patterns of behavior can contribute to a variety of distress and conflict in our lives. By recognizing how our thoughts influence how we feel and act, we can change our patterns of thinking and better understand ourselves. Using CBT, we will increase problem-solving skills and build self-confidence.

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

I have used skills based on the principles of Dialectic Behavior Therapy to treat clients with borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, major depressive disorder, and bipolar disorder. It is especially effective for those who are struggling with emotional regulation, self-destructive behaviors, and interpersonal difficulties. In DBT, the term “dialectical” refers to finding a balance between two seemingly opposing concepts: acceptance and change.

Location

Virtual
Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 17 ratings

1 rating with written reviews

March 26, 2025

Karen is so wonderful. She's probably the first therapist I've ever had that's been very solution driven (working toward my therapy goals) and really makes me elaborate on how I'm feeling. I've done online therapy before but after meeting Karen, I don't think I actually talked to any legit therapists before her. She's understanding and very empathetic and I feel as though she genuinely cares for my well being. I look forward to our sessions every week and she has been a shining light in my busy world. If you're looking for a therapist and are having trouble picking one, I 10/10 would recommend her!

Verified client, age 18-24

Review shared after session 5 with Karen