Depression, Anxiety, Life Transition, ADHD, Coping Skills, Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress
Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Karen
Karen Johnston is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience. She specializes in trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and life transitions, empowering clients to overcome barriers such as unresolved childhood wounds, parental challenges, and other traumas. Karen is passionate about working with diverse populations, including military and multicultural clients, as well as those seeking support that aligns with their faith, guiding them toward healing, growth, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Karen earned her Master’s in Counseling from Regent University. She uses eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, and trauma-informed care.
As a former military spouse, Karen understands life transitions and multicultural challenges. She is here to partner with you and offer support, new perspectives, and practical strategies to help you navigate whatever you’re facing. With compassion and expertise, she will guide you toward healing, growth, and self-discovery.
"Your healing matters, and I bring compassion, trauma expertise, and effective tools like EMDR to help you thrive."
Get to know Karen
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I have always gravitated towards helping others throughout my life. So becoming a counselor seemed like the natural fit for my personality.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work best with clients who want to be participating in counseling.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I am excited to work with clients of all ages and backgrounds.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
I wish clients knew that counseling can be an extremely helpful and therapeutic experience, if they remain open and honest while working with a counseling. You get out of counseling what you put into it.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
Thriveworks seems like a very dynamic and supportive company that offers many opportunities to clinician especially for residents to gain experience and licensure.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by the idea that as a clinician I can plant seeds in clients lives in which can grow and allow the clients to have happier lives going forward.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
Clients can expect to be supported and listened to and heard.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
The first session should be about understanding why the client is seeking counseling and building a rapport with the client.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first session?
I am dedicated to helping them reach the goals they have for themselves.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 6 years
- Graduating institute
- Regent University
- Graduating degree
- Master of Art in Counseling
Additional details
Practice information
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