Karen has a deep-seated interest in working with people in a variety of life stages: from adolescence to older adulthood. For adolescents, she believes in acting as an ally during this unique stage of developing self-identity and learning to set and achieve personal goals. For all life stages, Karen believes in placing a strong emphasis on honoring each person’s autonomy, dignity, and individual life experiences. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive space for all of her clients. Karen strives to create an environment where each person feels seen, heard, and valued. She is dedicated to fostering resilience and facilitating personal growth, helping her clients navigate their mental health journeys with confidence and hope.

Clients find solace in Karen's presence, describing her as empathetic, approachable, and non-judgmental. She enters the therapy room armed with curiosity, an enduring trait that underpins her commitment to each individual's unique journey. Her therapeutic approach is founded on healing-centered and strengths-based methodologies, all while embracing supportive therapeutic modalities and incorporating in attachment theory, EMDR, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral elements to tailor treatment plans to individual needs.

The impact of Karen's academic journey is evident in her approach to therapy. A defining moment arose during the "Psychology of Group and Family Systems Intervention" course, where Dr. Howard C. Stevenson and Dr. Kelsey M. Jones illuminated the transformative power of hope within the counseling process. This revelation resonated deeply with Karen, forming the cornerstone of her therapeutic philosophy. Another pivotal course, "Trauma in School and Mental Health Counseling," led by Dr. Jeanne M. Felter and Dr. Jayme Banks, instilled in Karen the importance of adopting a healing-centered lens for clients.

Karen's expansive worldview is enriched by her voracious appetite for literature and travel. As an avid reader, she appreciates the profound impact of narratives on understanding the human psyche. Her love for travel acts as a wellspring of rejuvenation, offering insights into diverse cultures and fostering self-discovery. Connecting with family and friends underscores Karen's sense of belonging and reminds her of the importance of authentic relationships.

Karen's professional history reflects her dedication to fostering growth and resilience in diverse settings. With four years as a Student Assistance Program Committee Member in public education, she played a pivotal role in supporting students' holistic well-being. Her year-long internship in a local elementary school deepened her understanding of counseling's impact on young minds. Additionally, she spent two years facilitating support for adolescents with ADHD, further enhancing her grasp of varied therapeutic needs.

Notably, Karen's proudest moments stem from her seventeen-year teaching career, where her connection with adolescents and teens empowered them to navigate life's complexities at their own pace. This symbiotic relationship underscored her belief in mutual learning and growth.

Karen's transition from education to therapy was catalyzed by the pandemic's aftermath. Observing the widespread search for genuine connections and safe spaces, she resolved to provide guidance to others seeking to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Through her unwavering commitment, Karen Keating aspires to empower individuals to embrace their true selves and navigate life's journey with resilience, authenticity, and hope.