Karen Risch

Headshot of Karen Risch

Professional Counselor Associate

Specializations:

  • Couples
  • Families
  • Individual Adults

Therapeutic Approaches:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Gottman
  • Family Systems Theory
  • Attachment
  • Relational Life Therapy (RLT)
  • Inner Child Work (with Individuals)

Specializing In

  • In-Person
  • Teletherapy

I like to help people connect with, strengthen, and expand their authentic self.  I work with clients to increase awareness of the familial and cultural beliefs they may have unconsciously absorbed, but which may not serve them well now. I especially enjoy facilitating groups, and working with couples and families to dissolve misunderstandings and increase intimacy. We have entered a period of expanding consciousness requiring changes that provoke a lot of anxiety for people.  I like to amplify creativity, joy, and humor wherever possible.

I work primarily from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) model, but incorporate aspects of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), attachment, family systems theory, and discoveries of John Gottman, among other therapeutic orientations, in my practice.  I completed a master’s degree with a focus upon marriage and family, and community-based counseling at California State University Northridge.  Shortly afterward, I moved to Oregon to enjoy hiking, wildlife, rain, and shorter commutes.  I completed a nursing degree in Oregon and practiced as a psychiatric RN.  Along the way, I acquired specialized knowledge of trauma, dementia, medical and medication issues, drug and alcohol addiction, domestic violence, and depression. When not working, I enjoy singing and playing music with friends at jams.