Karen Shanahan
Online TherapyAccepting New Clients
About Karen
I have had the privilege of working in education and counseling psychology for over 20 years in a variety of roles, including practitioner, supervisor, director, and co-chair of a non-profit Perinatal Mental Health Coalition. I continue to practice and to fuel my passion by supporting adults in need of individual therapy to help cope with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and trauma. I also have extensive training and experience supporting couples to improve intimacy, communication and connection. In addition to this, I have a specialization in supporting women dealing with postpartum depression/anxiety, infertility, perinatal loss, and traumatic pregnancy/birth as well as supporting overall maternal wellness and women's health.
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Mindfulness with a person-centered, strengths based approach to support individualized goals.
Insurance Accepted
Blue Cross Blue ShieldHarvard Pilgrim Health CareOptumTufts Health PlanUnitedHealthcare
Out-of-Network Cost
$170 - 140 per session
Approaches · Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
How does cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) work and how can it help?
Cognitive behavioral therapy helps you understand the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. When negative thought patterns begin to shape the way you feel and respond to life’s challenges, CBT helps identify those patterns and replace them with healthier, more balanced ways of thinking. In our work together, CBT can help you develop practical coping skills, reduce anxiety and depression, and respond to difficult experiences with greater clarity and self-compassion. It is a structured, effective approach that helps create lasting change in everyday life.
Approaches · Motivational Interviewing
How does motivational interviewing work and how can it help?
Motivational interviewing is a collaborative, supportive approach that helps people explore mixed feelings about change without pressure or judgment. Rather than telling you what to do, I help you identify your own reasons for change, build confidence in your ability to move forward, and reconnect with the goals and values that matter most to you. This approach can be especially helpful when you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin, and it can support meaningful progress in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, and life transitions.
Location
145 Walker Road
Swampscott, Massachusetts 01907
Specialties
AnxietyDepressionGriefParentingStressTrauma and PTSD
Client Focuses
Adult
Approaches
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)Interpersonal (IPT)Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)Motivational Interviewing