Karen Haggard

For most of my professional life I have been working with individuals who have experienced trauma, and who are struggling to manage their symptoms. As a seasoned clinician, I strive to provide culturally competent, trauma informed care to a diverse population of clients at all stages of the developmental spectrum. I specialize in providing a calm, warm, comfortable environment of healing, where my clients can begin to focus on their own healing journey, working at their own pace, starting wherever they are most comfortable starting their journey, and utilizing the treatment modalities that feel most comfortable for each client. I truly believe that each client must be in charge of their own healing journey, including being in charge of the pace and the way that we decide to approach their particular needs and issues. I have never and will never use a cookie cutter approach with my clients. I see my job as setting the stage and supporting my clients as their guide to a healthier life. I am trained in a variety of evidence based modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR), CBT for Suicide Prevention, Problem Solving Therapy for Suicide Prevention, Advanced Safety Planning intervention for Suicide Prevention, Integrated Behavioral Couples Therapy, Behavioral Family Therapy, mindfulness meditation, hypnosis, guided meditation, and similar skills to help my clients to grow and heal. I prefer to work with adults or older teens and young adults, who have some ability to make decisions about their lives. I’ve worked with men, women, LGBTQ individuals, parent’s of LGBTQ individuals who are struggling to come to terms with their child’s orientation, Military personnel, Veterans, first responders and similar individuals who have experienced trauma in their work or their day to day lives. I have also worked with and supported individuals who are facing end of life decisions and serious illness, as well as their caregivers. I am comfortable with most issues that my clients present, and I’m open to exploring any issue that is impacting my client. I can interact with you in whatever manner you are most comfortable. I find it helpful to participate in video and telephone sessions so that we can get to know each other better. But I am also available to you via text or chat, if that is more comfortable for you. A majority of my availability is in the evenings and on the weekends, and I am located in CDT or CST, but I check messages at least once during each weekday. I know how hard it can be to find a counselor with whom you feel connected. I would be honored to work with you through this stage of your life. Right now I am seeking clients who are available during the evenings on Saturdays and Sundays in particular. I am located in Illinois, so my availability is CST.