Karen Kushell, MA, AMFT, APCC

My Approach
Much of my work is with emerging and young adults, as well as adults across the lifespan, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, relationships, identity, communication, and periods of transition, uncertainty, or difficult circumstances. With warmth and grounded curiosity, we notice patterns and make connections that may be hard to see from the inside, build on your strengths and values, and get clearer on how you'd like life to feel and what might help you move toward it. My approach is integrative and trauma-informed, drawing from person-centered, psychodynamic, attachment-based, DBT, and other evidence-informed perspectives. What matters most is bringing these ideas together in thoughtful ways that fit the person and the
moment. I value reflection alongside practical ways of making change that feel authentic and useful in everyday life.

Background & Training
I earned my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, following undergraduate study in Communication Studies at UCLA and post-baccalaureate study in psychology at UC Berkeley. I completed my clinical training at Occidental College’s Emmons Wellness Center,
working primarily with emerging adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationships, identity, family concerns, and major life transitions.
Before becoming a therapist, I worked in creative and leadership roles in television, film, and nonprofit settings, and raised two children into young adulthood. That path has deepened my appreciation for how identity, relationships, work, and meaning evolve across a lifetime.

Beliefs & Interests
I’m drawn to the power of “both/and.” We can be both struggling and resilient, stuck and moving, shaped by our circumstances and not defined by them. I see therapy as a place to make sense of what is yours, learn to carry it differently, and develop the insight, tools, and strength to choose how you want to move through the world—with a fair dose of humor along the way. Away from work, I enjoy yoga, travel, hiking (usually with a podcast in my ears), and time with family and friends. My nightstand is always piled with books about technology, business, culture, and people.

Areas of Focus
Emerging & Young Adults • Adults • Couples • Anxiety, Depression & Emotional Overwhelm • Identity, Meaning & Life Transitions • Relationships, Family & Workplace Dynamics • Parenting & Young Adult Launch • Trauma, Loss & Recovery • Coping Patterns & Meaningful Change • Creative People & Deep Thinkers