Mindful Alchemy Counseling, LLC
Get to Know Me
pronouns: she/they
Hi, I’m Kara (pronounced care-uh), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker currently based in Nashville, TN but soon embarking on a new adventure in Richmond, VA. I’m a rare native Nashvillian, and I’ve been practicing as a therapist since 2009, after earning my Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Tennessee. However, my path in mental health and healing started long before then, when I was a college student grappling with questions of purpose, meaning, and direction, feeling like an outsider without understanding why, and beginning to heal from religious trauma and shame.
I am deeply passionate about working with individuals who identify as part of the queer community, those who have experienced religious abuse, and anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or “different.” As someone who connects strongly with the concepts of gender fluidity and the idea of sexuality existing on a spectrum, I firmly believe in the power of self-authorship—creating and defining our own stories, labels, and narratives. I am a sex-positive and kink-positive therapist, and I advocate for queer and trans rights, social justice, and reproductive freedom.
My approach is rooted in person-centered therapy, which means I honor the belief that you are the expert on your own experience and the greatest resource for your healing. I take a holistic approach, affirming the whole person rather than focusing solely on the problem that brought you into therapy. I understand that what may initially seem like a singular issue is often a complex web of interconnected layers, and I am committed to helping you explore, untangle, and address these layers in a compassionate and empowering way.
In therapy, I believe the relationship between therapist and client is the foundation for healing. I take pride in building meaningful, authentic connections with my clients, grounded in mutual respect, trust, and a shared vision for their journey toward change. It’s important to me that I never ask my clients to do something I wouldn’t be willing to do myself—my commitment to you is to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Quick Facts
Fave Book:
Circe by Madeline Miller
Enneagram:
Type 5: The Investigator with a dash of
Type 4: The Individualist
Fave Musical:
Wicked
Spirit Animal:
Lynx
Fave Recent Movie:
Mickey 17
Fave Video Game:
The Last of Us Part II
Fave TV Show:
Severance
Hobbies:
Travel, Theater, Knitting, Crochet, Yoga, Video Games, Legos, Escape Rooms, Cycling
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Why Mindful Alchemy?
At Mindful Alchemy Counseling, I am committed to helping individuals navigate life’s transitions and challenges with resilience, self-awareness, and compassion. My approach is centered on empowering clients to move beyond self- limiting narratives, heal from past trauma, and create lives of purpose and fulfillment.
I have a deep passion for symbolism, metaphor, and mythology. I believe the stories we tell ourselves about who we are, our relationships, and the world around us are deeply shaped by our life experiences. When it comes to healing and transforming these narratives, I find inspiration in the ancient myths that have long been used to explain the mysteries of life and the human condition. These timeless stories offer powerful insights into how we can transcend our struggles and reconnect with our truest selves.
The concept of alchemy fascinates me: the idea of transforming "base metals" into "noble metals." Alchemy, practiced since the early centuries AD, represents a process of purification and transformation—a metaphor for the profound inner work of personal growth. Just as alchemists sought to turn one material into something more precious, I believe we too have the capacity for deep mental, emotional, and behavioral transformation. Through this process, we evolve into more empowered, authentic versions of ourselves.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in mindfulness and relational practices, fostering healing by honoring the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. I am dedicated to creating a compassionate, inclusive space where individuals can explore their authentic selves, cultivate meaningful relationships, and embrace personal transformation. My mission is to guide clients on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and healing—helping them unlock their inner strength and live more authentically.
I specialize in working with adults, particularly those within the LGBTQ+ community, individuals navigating significant life transitions, and those seeking to heal unresolved trauma. Together, we can address obstacles that may have hindered your journey toward fulfillment and life satisfaction, empowering you to step into the life you deserve.