About Karen Collins

Meet Karen Collins, LMFT

If you’ve landed here, it’s probably because you’re looking for real support. You might be feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns that don’t make sense anymore. Maybe you’ve tried to fix things on your own, but nothing seems to stick. That’s where I come in. This page is all about Karen Collins and how I support people who are ready for change but aren’t sure where to start.

I’m a licensed therapist based in Petaluma, and I’ve been doing this work for over 20 years. What makes me different is how I show up with honesty, warmth, and a deep respect for what you’re carrying. I won’t just sit quietly. I’ll listen closely, ask questions that help you make sense of things, and offer support that actually feels useful.

Because you deserve someone who gets it and knows how to help.

A Personal Reason to Care

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been someone people turn to when things feel hard. But it wasn’t until I went to therapy myself that I understood how powerful that space could be. I had someone look me in the eye and say, “You don’t have to do this alone.” That moment stayed with me. It shaped everything about how I work now.

Therapy helped me make sense of things that once felt impossible. And over time, I knew I wanted to give that kind of space to others. Now, I help people do the same, find clarity, feel more connected, and finally breathe again.

I have had a lifelong belief in people’s capacity to heal when they feel seen, heard, and supported. I still believe in that every single day.

What Guides My Work

Credentials & Experience

• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #53852), State of California
• Master's in Counseling Psychology, Argosy University (2010)
• Over 20 years of clinical experience with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents
• Expertise in trauma-informed care, addiction recovery, and adolescent mental health
• Former Director of Family Programs, Henry Ohlhoff Recovery Programs
• Author of “A Parent Guide to Teens, Technology, and Social Media” [Free Download]

Specialized training in:

• The Developmental Model (Stephanie Brown, Ph.D.)
• Motivational Enhancement Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MET-CBT)
• Family Systems Theory
• Internal Family Systems (IFS)
• Level I and II Gottman Method

Who I Work With and What I Help

Finding the right therapist isn’t easy. You might wonder if you’re too much, or not enough. Maybe you’re scared to open up. I get that. But you’re not alone, and you’re not beyond help. I offer therapy for adults, couples, and parents in Petaluma, California. You’re in the right place if you’re ready for support that feels real.

• Anxiety and Overthinking - For people who feel constantly overwhelmed and want relief that lasts
  
  
• Relationship Conflict - For couples stuck in the same painful cycles who want connection and trust again
  
  
• Parenting Support - For parents who are trying to break generational patterns and don’t want to lose themselves
  
  
• Narcissistic Relationship Recovery - For individuals navigating toxic family or romantic dynamics
  
  
• Burnout and Emotional Fatigue - For anyone who feels exhausted, invisible, or like they’re always holding it together
  

What You Can Count On

You deserve a space that feels safe, calm, and honest. That’s what I work hard to create. Every client I meet is treated with respect and care. There’s no pressure to be perfect here. You get to show up just as you are.

I take your privacy seriously, and I hold every part of your story with care. I work from a place of cultural humility and am always learning. This work means something to me, and I’ll never treat you like just another appointment. You’ll get my full presence every time we meet.

Because you matter. And your healing matters too.

Speaking & Community Engagement

Sharing what I’ve learned beyond the therapy room is a meaningful part of my work.

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to speak at conferences, schools, and community events throughout California on topics that matter deeply to me: adolescent mental health, the impact of technology on youth, parenting challenges, and recovery from addiction.

Whether I’m speaking in a high school auditorium or training fellow professionals, my intention is always the same. I aim to offer honest insight, grounded guidance, and a space where people feel seen and supported.

Highlights include:

Let's Connect – Your Next Step

If something about this page spoke to you, I invite you to reach out. Book your appointment so we can see if working together feels like the right fit. I look forward to connecting with you.