Karen Amsden, LCSW
Congratulations on taking the first step on your therapy journey! I believe the best indicator of success in therapy is the strength of the relationship between the client and the therapist. My approach is rooted in compassion, authenticity, humor, and trust. I strive to create a nonjudgmental space where you can bring your real self, your challenges, hopes, and questions, without fear of being dismissed or minimized.
I see therapy as a collaborative journey. It's all about the relationship and rapport we will build together. We'll explore your experiences, identify patterns, and build tools to support healing, resilience and growth. I adapt my approach to your unique needs, drawing on evidence-based practices while staying centered on what feels most meaningful to you.
My goal is to help you work through current struggles, and also to empower you to move toward a life that feels more aligned, connected, and fulfilling. I want to be your biggest cheerleader and provide all the support and encouragement you need in navigating life's challenges.
Top Specialties
Depression
Anxiety
Borderline Personality Disorder
Expertise
Addiction
Adjustment Disorder
Autism
Bipolar Disorder
Disability
Grief
Life Transitions
Relationships
Schizophrenia
Suicidal Ideation
Karen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and received her Master’s Degree in Social Worker from the University of Utah. She earned a Bachelor’s in Psychology from BYU. Karen completed internships at ScenicView Academy as well as the Children’s Justice Center. Karen worked for the local mental health authority for 31 years and was the Clinical Director of the Intensive Residential Treatment Program for adults with mental illness for over 10 years. She was a therapist on the Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT) and served clients experiencing crisis and/or suicidal ideation all over Utah County from Mona to Eagle Mountain. Karen also worked as an onsite therapist at the Crisis Receiving Center in Provo from 2012 to 2024.
Karen has experience working with a variety of individuals with various struggles including major depression, anxiety, PTSD, autism, addiction, trauma, domestic violence, marital conflict, personality disorder, schizophrenia, and chronic physical illness. Karen loves people and finds joy in connecting with others.
In her spare time, Karen can be found playing with her two adorable grandsons. She also enjoys musical theater and currently serves on the Springville Playhouse Board of Directors. Karen enjoys almost everything life has to offer so it might be much faster to list the things Karen doesn’t like which include tomatoes, spiders, and mean people.
To schedule a free 15-minute consultation, please call 801-226-2550, or text 801-226-8297 and we’ll get you on Laurel’s calendar.
