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 may report varying symptoms related to worry, stress, difficulties with focus, relational concerns,  issues of life transitions or wanting to learn more about how to feel more stable and sound emotionally.  I also have a focus in and often meet with neurodivergent individuals & people wanting to make changes in their lives, but perhaps having difficulty finding a place to begin.

Described as positive, engaging and having an upbeat personality--I prefer an open, mindful-cbt, solutions and strengths-based approach to my therapy style. I strive to make the place we meet feel comfortable, judgement-free and safe.  

Now a bit about me....I absolutely love what I do and have always had an interest in learning more about others and being a helper. I am married, have three children and quite a few pets! My home is busy  and inviting and I wouldn't have it any other way.  I am a being of plants, animals,  connection,  family and friends. I am typically spending time with humans or animals I enjoy, digging in the dirt, organizing something, biking or finding somewhere else to put a plant. I am passionate about meeting others where they are at 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. 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 fit (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 consult--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 in mental health field since 2005
• Education: University of Southern IL Edwardsville, MA-Clinical Adult Psychology 
• Certificate: University of North Dakota / Autism Spectrum Disorders, 2016
• Certificate: Mayo Clinic / Tobacco Cessation Specialist, 2017
• Approved Supervisor: MN BBHT for LPC and LPCC
• License: cc00518 Minnesota, MN BBHT