Kare, a second-year master’s student at Indiana University’s School of Social Work, is a therapist-in-training at Bloomington Center for Connection. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Indiana in gender studies, psychology, and sociology, to support her practice. As a queer, sex-positive, neurodivergent, chronically ill, and fat advocate clinician, she offers a unique perspective. Kare is available to work with teenagers and adults.
Mental illness can be overwhelming, and Kare speaks from experience, having dealt with prolonged trauma, ADHD, depression, grief, chronic illness, pain, and anxiety. Through her own therapy journey, she recognized shortcomings in traditional mental health care and the importance of therapists with lived experiences. Kare advocates for anti-oppressive and abolitionist practices in mental health care.
In her therapeutic approach, Kare uses Relational Cultural Therapy, challenging her own biases and emphasizing the importance of connection in a society that prioritizes individualism. She believes that prioritizing authenticity and open dialogue creates healing. Kare strives to understand each client, starting where they are.
Outside of therapy, Kare enjoys art, board games, photography, thrifting, travel, TikTok, and stand-up comedy. Her mornings are greeted by her beloved black cat, Ninja. She eagerly anticipates October each year. Kare is also involved in developing RPGs for Therapists at BCC, finding new ways to bring play and connection to community.