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. 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.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
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.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
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.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
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.
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.
3 ratings with written reviews
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.
May 13, 2025
She is very professional, but still extremely comfortable to talk to. I am looking forward to more appointments and improving with set goals with her.
March 7, 2025
I really appreciate Karen’s ability to ask the right questions. I never feel judged and always leave the session feeling like I gained some more insight into my own thoughts and behaviors.