Karen has a Masters of Social Work from the University of Toronto and is a member of the OCSWSSW (Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Work) and OASW (Ontario Association of Social Work). She also has a Masters of Education and is studying harp therapy to be a Certified Healthcare Musician.
It is Karen's honour to walk alongside clients. She uses a strengths based approach, focusing on and building upon the inner strength and resiliency of each person. She honours each person's story and journey, while working collaboratively with clients to help them achieve their life goals, face life challenges, connect with supportive resources, and move forward in healing. Karen uses a variety of approaches to therapy including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness, as well as Strength Based, Solution Focused, and Empowerment approaches during each counselling session. The chosen combination of approaches matches each client’s unique goals, plans, and situations.
Karen's interest in pelvic and maternal health sprang from her own challenging journey into motherhood with the traumatic birth of her first child (fourth degree tearing, etc). She knows first hand the importance of supportive interdisciplinary services for maternal and pelvic health and is honoured to be part of the team at Pelvic Physio Niagara - Fonthill Wellness Centre.
Karen works collaboratively with clients in the following types of areas:
- Maternal Health
- Chronic Pain
- Chronic Illness
- Trauma
- Bereavement/ Grief
- Chronic Stress
- Mental Health and Wellness (e.g. anxiety/ depression)
- Self Esteem
- Life Transitions
- Holistic Wellness
- Cross Cultural Support
- Meditation/ Mindfulness
Karen has worked in a variety of other settings, including supporting refugees and the settlement sector, and at-risk youth. She uses trauma informed practice, and holistic wellness support. Karen is described as warm, open, supportive, and empathetic.
