Discover New Perspectives
ABOUT ME
My name is Karen and I am a Pennsylvania native and state licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working in the behavioral health field formally since 2006 but I developed my love of working with people early on - from my very first job at my church camp in my early teens. In those first summers working away at camp, I learned the value of taking time away from the hum drum of day to day life in order to dive deep into "the work of life" with other people by your side. From that time on, I knew that I wanted to make "journeying with people" my life's work. We all have "life work" to do and find that we get stuck in periods of anxiety, self doubt, depression, and relational conflict. We find ourselves confused by the mix of "root causes" that we face - finding that our biology, emotions, thoughts, spirits, and relationships are so intimately intertwined that we are not sure what we need to do to become "un-stuck."
I work collaboratively with clients to provide a safe and welcoming space to address a wide range of concerns. My focus in treatment is systemic and includes the use of cognitive behavioral, emotionally focused, and contextual strategies. I believe in listening well while also actively engaging with clients to resolve the unhealthy patterns and dynamics that hold them down. I work with people right where they are in life – respecting all people and their individual beliefs and faith systems—and do offer counseling from a Christian, faith-based perspective, per client’s request. I am not an expert in anyone’s life—but I am trained to offer focus, psychological/behavioral/relational insight, and healthy challenge so that you can move forward in a positive direction. My role is to walk on this path with you and, if there is a way to sum up how I seek to practice in therapy, it is this: “Success as a therapist is not found in doing something for the client, but rather in being someone for the client” (Ili Rivera Walter). If you are looking to invite someone into the mess and vulnerability of your journey—no matter how dark (or little) you think it is—know that I am both honored and humbled to walk with you.
_JPG.jpg)
Introducing Heather
Neustadter, LPC
I am very excited to announce that Heather Neustadter, LPC is now taking clients at my practice! Heather comes with a lot of clinical and life experience but I will let her introduce herself to you here:
"Hi! My name is Heather, I graduated in 2010 from Cairn University with my M.S. in Counseling. In the past 15 years I have worked as a counselor in a church, a house parent at a group home for foster children, and in a counseling private practice in Delaware. I am so thankful for all of the different experiences I have had and learned from.
It is my privilege to walk alongside my clients in whatever they are going through. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment in which clients can heal and grow. I know that it is hard to come to therapy and engage in the therapeutic process. When you come to see me, I utilize a combination of theories, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Theory, as well as EMDR therapy.
Each person is unique and your counseling experience should be unique to you as well. I want to work with you towards your goals!"
A SYSTEMIC APPROACH TO ADDRESS YOUR CONCERNS
COUPLE'S THERAPY
Therapy can be a space to breathe new life into relationships that have, most likely, weathered some difficult storms. For people who have already decided to change the nature of their relationship, it can be a space to learn, for example, how to co-parent and find a healthy path forward. We all long for connection and health in our relationships but we sometimes find ourselves stuck in pain and resentment instead. I am committed to walking with couples on their relationship journey by holding space for them to explore the "dances" (or processes) that seem to dominate the relationship. Relationship work is tough, yet so worthwhile, and is often is eased by having a guide. Don't keep waiting for time to "heal all wounds." Breathe in deep and find the courage to face the struggles in your relationship. I am here to help; you don't have to navigate these waters alone.
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY
I offer individual therapy for people interested in exploring common concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, ADHD, adoption related concerns, relationship related concerns, grief and loss, adjustment related issues, pre and postpartum issues, and many more. I am a Christian and offer therapy from a faith based perspective for those who desire that dynamic in their treatment, but I do not expect my clients to share that belief system. I work with clients wherever they are and work collaboratively to develop goals with them about what they want to see change in their life and health. I utilize client centered, cognitive behavioral/family systems theories as well as emotionally focused/attachment oriented theories. I have added training in mindfulness based stress reduction and view the therapeutic relationship as integral in the therapy process. I deeply value my clients as well as their insights and never presume to be the expert in someone's life; rather, I help individuals become courageous and empowered in their own lives to take steps towards health.
FAMILY COUNSELING
Nothing is more beautiful than a family pulling together rather than further apart. I am here to help families with a variety of concerns, not limited to, adjustment to divorce, blended family concerns, relationships with adult children, etc... We can not control others, but we can learn to communicate with others and love others well. This can be easier said than done and so I am here to walk with you in this territory of confusion, pain, and frustration.
TELEHEALTH SERVICES
Telehealth services are available upon request as long as clients are located in the state of Pennsylvania. Telehealth became a part of the fabric of therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic but has continued to remain a good option for many clients who live a great distance from the physical office location, would like to avoid dangerous travel during inclement weather, or who want to have their session during a time of illness or recovery from medical procedures.
Never be afraid of change, for change is as much a part of life as breathing. Each breath is a new one, never the same and always propelling us to something new...a new moment, a new insight, a new choice. Endeavor to embrace change and welcome it into your life. It may not be easy, and it may walk us through dark places, but it is a worthwhile adventure.
**I accept many major insurance plans so please call for verification today! Private Pay rate available at $100 per clinical hour.**
**unfortunately we are unable to accept Medicare/Medicaid or Medical Assistance at this time**
SCHEDULE A SESSION
For more information about scheduling an appointment, contact me today!
513 W Chocolate Ave
Suite 100
Hershey, PA 17033
office phone: 717-473-0057
fax: 570-915-5355
