Karen Ross Taylor LCSW-C

I take an integrative approach to life as well as the therapy process. I have never found manualized (or by the book therapy) very useful in my individual sessions. I do think those manuals and books have a place however- but more in the self-help or academic areas. I may reference a few in my sessions with clients but generally do not depend on textbooks and manuals to guide sessions.

I am often described as kind, approachable and humorous. I have a hard time staying serious but can endeavor to be formal if that is more your cup of tea. I am a big fan of tea by the way- it can play a considerable part in mindfulness and relaxation practices. I am also an aspiring Buddhist so tend to incorporate some mindfulness and other bits of principles or philosophies into my sessions. But for the most part- I like to find out what resonates or "clicks" with each client because that is the direction we will head together.

Our first session is typically quite structured and guided by me primarily. Lots of questions and screenings, psychoeducation about confidentiality and other necessary disclosures. Ideally it will create a "bigger picture" of what brings you to therapy and what needs you have. We also must decide on a treatment plan goal during our first session. Rest assured, we can change or revise the goals and plan during our future sessions as needed. You can also ask a few questions about me if you like. If the format of our first session was completely up to me- it would be a less structured, more relaxed, like a meet and greet intermingled with a few similar questions and inquiries- but more time for relationship building. I would also like to introduce you briefly to my two cats Pippin and Merry as they are often curious about virtual therapy sessions and may hop up in front of the screen uninvited. They just want to say hello in their own way but please let me know if you have a strict no four-legged beings present in the virtual therapy session rule.

• Maryland, LCSW-C, 18507

My professional work experience is quite varied. When I first got my master's degree I sought work at a local nursing home as a social worker. I changed my residence a few times which usually prompted me to find a different workplace closer to home. All in all, I worked at about 5 different nursing/rehabilitation centers and retirement communities over about a 15-year period. I found the relationships I formed with residents to be the most rewarding aspect of the work. Additionally, I have some inpatient psychiatric social work experience but found that to be very fast paced which didn't allow time for much relationship building. Some patients had patterns of returning for inpatient care and with some of them a greater rapport and familiarity would develop. I found a niche however in providing individual therapy in an outpatient setting where clients sought short- and longer-term support and counselling. Many of my clients in the community mental health clinic also struggled with basic necessities like housing, food, and income. Here was a position which supported and really required relationship building. Assisting client as they moved through the stages of change was more likely to occur when we had established mutual rapport and trust.