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Karen Banea

LCSW (she/her)7 years of experience
4.9 (21)
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Hi! I'm Karen, I'm an LCSW based in California and licensed in California and Illinois. I received my Masters from Loyola University Chicago, and have been practicing as a therapist for 6 years.

I tend to let my clients lead with the concern they'd like to discuss that day in session, though I'm also willing to suggest past subjects that have arisen if you don't have something on your mind for the day.

My passion is helping young adults address and cope with past trauma, as well as managing the issues of day to day life that come with figuring out how to balance work, social life, and other tasks of adulthood.

First session

In our first session, we'll go through introductions and a quick overview of important policies. From there, we'll discuss the concerns bringing you to therapy as described in your intake questionnaire, as well as your goals for treatment.

Strengths

In session, I provide a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere focused on you. I tend to let my clients lead with the concern they'd like to discuss that day in session, though I'm also willing to suggest past subjects that have arisen if you don't have something on your mind for the day. I bring humor to sessions when appropriate and I welcome laughter in the therapy space.

Ideal clients

I love working with young adults who are finding their place in the world, and particularly those who may have struggled with trauma to come to that place.

Treatment methods

Person-centered (Rogerian)

The foundation of my practice is centered in providing you a space for non-judgment and empathy, encouraging you to share your story and start to recognize the impact of past experiences.

Trauma-Focused CBT

I have done additional training in TF-CBT and have successfully used this approach to help those who have experienced trauma recognize the impact that it has had on their thought patterns, self-concept, and behaviors. Together, we work to gently identify and change any thought patterns and behaviors that are not serving you.

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I also incorporate CBT interventions in my practice when appropriate to encourage you to identify thought patterns and behaviors that don't support your goals, and help to identify different ways of approaching a situation or different behaviors to help meet those goals.

Location

Virtual sessions

Reviews and ratings

4.9 rating (21)5 reviews
May 7, 2026

Upon getting acquainted with my provider, I found she was organized, goal oriented, kind, understanding, patient, knowledgeable and made me feel at ease.

Verified client, age 25-34Review shared after session 2 with Karen
February 8, 2026

Karen has created a safe space for me. I’ve never felt judged. I feel heard and understood. I’m so grateful for the support and highly recommend her!

Verified client, age 18-24Review shared after session 2 with Karen
July 23, 2025

Karen is wonderful! After trying to find the right therapist for me (it really is like dating), I almost gave up but so glad I didn't. Karen truly listens to you and offers helpful solutions to problems. She remembers what you said in last sessions and offers helpful connections. She is also very warm, authentic, and open-minded, all qualities I really appreciate in a therapist. She's helped me make a lot of revelations so far and I look forward to continuing our relationship.

Verified client, age 35-44Review shared after session 8 with Karen

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