Karen obtained her LCSW in 1995 after completing her post-graduate residency. She earned an MSW from VCU in 1992 and a BA in Psychology from UVA in 1989. She is an EMDR Certified Therapist with EMDRIA. She received an additional certification as a Clinical Trauma Professional and has been trained in TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). Karen is a seasoned psychotherapist and has worked with children in a variety of settings including residential treatment, foster care, and private practice. She worked as a Clinical Administrator for a therapeutic foster care program in Maryland and started the therapeutic foster care program at United Methodist Family Services in Virginia Beach as the Program Coordinator. Karen has worked for many years in private practice, several years as an EMDR therapist, and also served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for abused and neglected children in Virginia Beach. She has provided parenting workshops to foster and adoptive parents, training to therapists, training to psychologists and group home/orphanage staff in Nicaragua, and has presented at state and national conferences. 

When she is not working, Karen enjoys being outside, spending time with family and friends, practicing yoga, reading, being involved in her church, and serving people who are homeless with PIN Ministry.