- Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology with Distinction (Yorkville University)
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology with Distinction (University of Alberta)
Specialized Training:
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Basic Training
- Advanced EMDR Training (Recent Event Protocol & G-TEP)
- Integrative Sex and Couples Course
- IFS Therapy Immersion Training
- EFT for Attachment Trauma
- Dialectical Behavioural Therapy Skills Training
- Clinical Trauma Intensive Training
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
- Suicide Assessment and Intervention
- Sex Work is Work Bias Training
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy Training (Level 1)
- First Responder to Sexual Assault and Abuse
- ASIST Training – Exp. April 2025
- Indigenous Youth Suicide Prevention Training
- Trauma-Informed Care Certificate
- QPR: Suicide Prevention Training
- Mental Health First Aid Training
- Brain Story Certification
Philosophy:
I find immense joy in crafting a nurturing space where individuals can embrace their authentic selves without hesitation. It’s my heartfelt mission to foster a safe and inviting atmosphere where you can feel genuinely validated and at ease. Utilizing a person-centered philosophy, I honour the facets of your identity and the experiences that have shaped you as an important element of your therapeutic process. My experience and professional training span perinatal/postpartum mental health and trauma, emotion regulation, cultural identity, and sexual/intimacy concerns for both individuals and couples.
My practice is trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and committed to inclusivity – a space where all identities, including LGBTQIA2S+, are honoured. I’m a sex-positive and anti-oppressive therapist who champions a Health at Every Size framework to therapy. I center clients as experts in their own lives, capable of uniquely overcoming challenges. Together, we co-create a compassionate space based on mutual respect, empathy, and non-judgment. Through this approach, you can expect a patient, encouraging and gentle presence, empowering you to navigate therapy at your own pace.
As a first-generation Latinx immigrant to Canada, I intimately understand the challenges faced by fellow immigrants and marginalized folks. Having navigated adapting to a new culture and language, I am keenly aware of the challenges in navigating both cultural identities while honouring our traditions. I feel fortunate to speak both Spanish and English and support folks from diverse communities to dismantle mental and sexual health stigma.
It takes strength to seek help for ourselves – congratulations on taking this important first step. I would be honoured to help you on this journey!
Modalities:
- Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)
- Sex Therapy (Inc. Imago, Sensate-Focused)
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
- Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)
- Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
- Narrative Therapy
- Mindfulness-based Approaches
Languages:
- English
- Spanish
Fun Fact About Karen:
I’m a devoted book-lover and enjoy reading fantasy, romance, and thriller novels! I’ve started (but have yet to finish…) several crochet and embroidery pieces. I also enjoy running and have made the brave (and scary) jump to sign up for a half-marathon!
