Find a therapist in El Cajon, CA — covered by insurance

I’m an LCSW. I really enjoy getting to know my clients and building a strong therapeutic relationship with them. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, sense of self, and also high achievers. Many things can stir up emotions, past experiences and trauma. My goal is to help you understand and work through those experiences and feelings. I'll help you reconnect with your inner strength and resilience, moving past the painful experiences that may be holding you back. I can support you in letting go of negative self-views, reducing your levels of distress, and building a renewed sense of confidence, worth, and peace. This process is about helping you both heal and rediscover the core strengths and values that make you, you.

Trauma can leave you feeling on edge, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that insight alone hasn’t changed. I help adults and older teens navigate traumatic experiences, anxiety, grief, and relationship difficulties. With over 20 years in the field, I bring a warm, direct, collaborative approach to helping you feel more grounded and connected. I offer gender-affirming therapy and LGBTQ+, kink, and polyamory-supportive care that respects your identity, relationships, and goals. I also welcome people living with chronic mental illness.

I veiw the path of a human life span, as each of us interact and peerceives the environment around us in our own unique way. My goal is to help clients look at their options, evaluate choices towarda healthier outcome. My work has involved in helping clients toward building better communication between couples, family members, and individual relationships. It is my belief that counseling / psychotherapy can provide a safe place where personal challenges can be processed, and finding choices toward enhancing the quality of life and improve relationships.

I'm not here to just listen while you talk — I'm here to work with you. I show up warm, engaged, and genuinely invested in your growth. I'll ask thoughtful questions, offer honest feedback, and, when the moment feels right, gently challenge the beliefs or behaviors that may be keeping you stuck. You'll always feel heard and respected here, never judged.

Before earning my Masters in Counseling, I earned a PhD in social and personality psychology. This background deeply informs how I show up as a therapist. I help clients address unresolved trauma and grief, anxiety and OCD, address relationship issues, as well as "problems of everyday living." My style is active, engaged, and practical.

Welcome. I’m Karen, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I work with adults and adolescents who are navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship stress, and major life transitions.

My approach is collaborative and strengths-based. I support clients in developing healthy boundaries, strengthening communication skills, and identifying coping strategies that genuinely fit their lives. Together, we work toward healing, personal growth, and greater emotional balance.

I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel empowered to explore your experiences, reconnect with your strengths, and move through life’s challenges with confidence and intention.