Meet Kara (care-ah)

She/Her

I enjoy connecting with individuals from varying backgrounds, cultures, points of view, concerns, and stages of life. Commonly, those who seek to meet with me say they tend to worry, are stressed, have difficulties with focus, maybe have relational concerns,  issues of life transitions, something in their life seems off and want to find out more, or want to learn more about how to feel more stable and sound emotionally.  I also have a focus within and often meet with neurodivergent individuals & people wanting to make changes in their lives but are having difficulty finding a place to begin.

I prefer an open, laid-back, mindful-cbt, solutions and strengths-based approach to my therapy style. I strive to make the place we meet feel comfortable, judgment-free, and safe.  

Now, a bit about me....I love what I do and have always been interested in learning more about others and being a helper. I like to figure out the how and why; my brain enjoys it!  I am married, have three children, and quite a few pets and plants...numbering growing.  My home is busy and inviting, and I wouldn't have it any other way.  I am a being of the outdoors, plants and nature, animals,  connection, being present,  family, and friends. I am typically spending time with things I enjoy, like plants--digging in the dirt, organizing something, biking, or finding somewhere else to put a plant (I am running out of room). I am passionate about meeting others where they are at in life and caring for all things I can--everyone and everything deserves a content place in this life.  I strive to find the light in anything but also find peace in finding ways to sit within the difficult lows in our lives and to learn and challenge ourselves because life isn't all sunshine and rainbows. To be able to take that into connecting with others, helping them to do the same- if that's what they're looking for is the proverbial cherry on top :) 

Connection is vital, and it has to start somewhere - as there are varying styles, approaches, and personalities in life, I am a fit for some and not for others, and that is OKAY!! It often takes some navigating and time to find out if we are a good match (as this is very important in a therapeutic relationship). If you are liking what you are reading, perhaps it's time to contact me for a consultation. I am looking forward to hearing from you!

I consider myself a "general therapist" with areas of specialty. This list is not exhaustive--please contact me if you have questions about any specifics! 

• Neurodiversity (specifically ADHD, Autism) self and within relationships
• Therapeutic Autism Assessment/Evaluation
• Life Transitions
• Parenting
• Relationships
• LGBTQIA+
• School Related Concerns
• Mindfulness and Self-discovery
• Spirituality/Religion/Faith: growth, concerns, healing
• General Life Stress and Processing
• Sexuality
• Healing and Connection with self and within relationships

• Experience: Over 19 years of experience in the field; therapy since 2008
• Education: University of Southern IL Edwardsville, MA, Clinical Adult Psychology 
• Certificate: University of North Dakota / Autism Spectrum Disorders, 2016
• Certificate: Mayo Clinic / Cessation Specialist, 2017
• Approved Supervisor: MN BBHT for LPC and LPCC
• License: cc00518 Minnesota, MN BBHT