Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Karla
Karla Walker is a Licensed Limited Master Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. Her ideal clients are individuals facing trauma, anxiety, depression, or identity challenges. They seek holistic therapy tailored to their unique needs and aim to restore emotional balance, develop self-awareness, and find empowerment in their healing journey. Karla is passionate about working through a spiritual lens and is a licensed and ordained Minister.
Karla earned her Master’s of Social Work from the University of Michigan. She integrates eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, cognitive behavior therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy with a holistic approach, creating a safe, empowering space for healing.
Karla understands that healing is a deeply personal journey, and she creates a compassionate space where clients feel heard and supported. She tailors therapy to individual needs, helping clients find strength and balance.

"As your dedicated therapist, I create a safe and welcoming space where healing begins, tailoring therapy to your unique journey with warmth, expertise, and care."
Get to know Karla
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I became a therapist to create a space where individuals feel truly seen, heard, and empowered in their healing. Supporting trauma recovery and emotional well-being is my passion, and I integrate evidence-based therapies like EMDR, CBT, and DBT to guide my clients. My goal is to help people navigate life’s challenges, reclaim resilience, and build a deeper sense of balance and self-awareness.
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I became a therapist to create a space where individuals feel truly seen, heard, and empowered in their healing. Supporting trauma recovery and emotional well-being is my passion, and I integrate evidence-based therapies like EMDR, CBT, and DBT to guide my clients. My goal is to help people navigate life’s challenges, reclaim resilience, and build a deeper sense of balance and self-awareness.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work best with individuals seeking compassionate, evidence-based therapy to navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, or identity challenges. My approach is tailored to clients who appreciate holistic healing, integrating EMDR, CBT, and DBT. I connect deeply with those looking for personalized support, whether through multicultural sensitivity, Christian counseling, or a safe space for self-discovery.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I'm most excited to work with individuals who are ready to embrace healing and personal growth. Whether they're navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, or identity exploration, I thrive in creating a safe, empowering space tailored to their unique journey. I especially connect with those seeking holistic care—integrating EMDR, CBT, and DBT—to build resilience, balance, and self-awareness.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
Healing is not about perfection—it's about progress. Growth happens in the small moments, in the courage to face emotions, even when it's uncomfortable. Every step forward, no matter how small, is meaningful. Hope helps, so keep it close to your heart. Therapy is a journey, and with patience and compassion, lasting change is always possible. You are never alone in this process.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I chose to practice at Thriveworks because of its commitment to accessible, high-quality mental health care. Thriveworks makes it easier for clients to receive the support they need through flexible scheduling, insurance coverage, and a welcoming environment. Here, I can focus fully on helping clients heal and grow without unnecessary barriers, creating a space where meaningful change happens.
What inspires you?
I'm inspired by helping others heal and creating a compassionate space for growth. My dedication to trauma recovery, identity exploration, and holistic therapy fuels my passion. I thrive on connecting with clients, refining my professional messaging, and making therapy more accessible. The process of guiding individuals toward self-awareness, resilience, and balance truly motivates me.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
In the first session, clients can expect a warm, welcoming space where they feel heard and supported. I take time to understand their unique concerns, goals, and experiences, ensuring they feel comfortable opening up. We'll discuss their reasons for seeking therapy, explore initial coping strategies, and begin shaping a personalized path toward healing and growth. Therapy is a collaborative journey, and my priority is creating a safe, compassionate space for that process to begin.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
In the first session, I want to establish trust and create a space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported. My goal is to help them feel comfortable sharing their concerns, clarify their therapy goals, and begin exploring the challenges that brought them in. I also introduce coping strategies and discuss how we can work together to build resilience, balance, and meaningful progress.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first session?
Clients should know that I prioritize creating a safe, welcoming space where they feel heard, respected, and supported. My approach is tailored to each individual, integrating evidence-based therapies like EMDR, CBT, and DBT with holistic techniques to address their unique needs. I believe healing is a collaborative process, and my goal is to help clients build resilience, self-awareness, and emotional balance. Whether they are navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, or identity challenges, I am committed to helping them find clarity and growth in their journey.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I read, run and spend time with friends and family for fun.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
One thing that defines me is my compassion for others and my deep appreciation for personal growth and resilience. I believe that challenges shape us, and I find meaning in exploring life's experiences with curiosity and compassion. Whether through learning, connecting with others, or embracing new perspectives, I am always seeking ways to grow and help others do the same.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 25 years
- Graduating institute
- University of Michigan
- Graduating degree
- Master of Social Work
