Meet the Therapist…
MEET KAREN EPSTEIN, LMHC, LCPC, EMDR-C, NCC
Licensed in Florida, Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC
Welcome! I’m Karen Epstein, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Florida, with additional licensure in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. I am also a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Certified EMDR Therapist (EMDR-C). I am currently completing advanced training in Somatic Experiencing pursuing full certification this year.
I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, PTSD and complex PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, menopause-related concerns, life transitions, and Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction (DGBI). My work is grounded in trauma-informed, mind–body approaches.
I have found that integrating EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, and IFS/Ego State work can be especially effective in supporting healing and meaningful change. Together, these approaches help clients regulate their nervous systems, process unresolved trauma, deepen self-awareness, and build greater capacity, resilience, and vitality.
My path into this field was shaped early on by my father, a psychologist and former Director of Behavioral Research at St. Elizabeth Hospital, who instilled in me a deep respect for mental health and the human capacity for growth. My trauma work began with supporting survivors of domestic abuse, where I witnessed firsthand the strength and adaptability people bring to their healing journeys. Over time, this work evolved into a focused practice centered on complex trauma and integrative treatment approaches.
My goal is to provide a warm, nonjudgmental space where individuals can safely explore their experiences, reconnect with themselves, and move toward greater well-being. I believe healing happens at a pace that honors each person’s history and strengths, and I am committed to supporting you in creating a life that feels more grounded, empowered, and fulfilling.
Training and Education:
Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling - John’s Hopkins University
Eye-Movement Desensitization and Preprocessing (EMDR) – Trauma Institute and Child Trauma Institue (TICTI)
Certified EMDR Therapist and CIT – EMDRIA (EMDR International Association)
Somatic Experiencing (in Advanced year, certification expected Dec. 2026) – Somatic Experiencing International (SEI)
Master Classes in Somatic Experiencing, Dr. Peter Levine, developer of Somatic Experiencing and SEI
EMDR Flash Technique – Phil Manfield, PhD, founder of the Flash Technique
EMDR and Ego States Training – EMDRIA
IFS-Informed Training – Bonnie Weiss, LCSW
IFS for EMDR – Bruce Hersey, LCSW, EMDRIA