Karen Schmitz is a psychotherapist at Wildflower. In her clinical practice, Karen draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, and Expressive Arts Therapy. Karen works with adolescents, adults, couples, and family structures experiencing grief & loss; complex trauma & PTSD; life transitions & evolutions; anxiety & depression; neurodivergence; gender, sexuality & identity exploration; self-esteem & body image; and relationship dynamics. She obtained her master’s degree at Lesley University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Dance/Movement Therapy. Read Karen’s full bio here.
What inspired you to pursue a career as a psychotherapist?
I’ve found the greatest fulfillment in working alongside others and helping them recognize and use their strengths and interests. Bringing this approach into the therapeutic space felt like a natural progression, allowing for a deeper and more personal connection. I believe we all share a responsibility to advocate for and uplift one another, and being a therapist feels like the role I was meant to step into.
As a psychotherapist, what part of your job is most satisfying?
It is a privilege to work with clients and cultivate relationships, whether brief or ongoing, that expand my understanding of the human experience. The connection and momentum within the therapeutic relationship have had such a profound impact on me both professionally and personally.
How would you describe your therapeutic approach?
My therapeutic approach is eclectic, dynamic, collaborative, and creative. I offer a variety of options to ensure sessions remain meaningful and productive, including expressive arts exploration, reflective conversation, pattern recognition, and skill-building.
Why do you believe that psychotherapy can help?
Therapy gives us the ability to hone in on our individual voice and needs. We spend so much time investing in other aspects of our lives that taking even an hour a week to pour back into ourselves is a gift everyone can benefit from.
What are some of your specialties and what drew you to them?
My work to date has included supporting individuals processing trauma as well as those receiving higher levels of care. In addition to being a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am a Registered Dance/Movement Therapist. While I am not a formally trained dancer, movement and embodiment have been central to my own therapy. As a musician, I enjoy incorporating all expressive arts into my work when it aligns with and supports the client’s needs. I am very inspired by the work of Natalie Rogers and working through an existential feminist therapeutic lens.
What is one thing about psychotherapy you wish everyone knew?
Therapy can take so many shapes and forms; there is no one-size-fits-all model. Depending on your current needs, therapy offerings can be adjusted, and therapists can provide resources and options that go beyond your sessions. Also, there is room for joy and play in the therapeutic space.
What is your motto or personal mantra?
Do what moves you.
What are your favorite self-care activities?
I really appreciate the range of self-nourishing activities that living in Chicago offers. In the cold months, it’s more like seeing live music, movies, and crockpot cooking. When it warms up, I love going swimming, dancing, and taking my dog for long walks in forest preserves.
