Welcome to this week’s Rivia Mind Clinician Spotlight! We’re delighted to introduce Kara Bax, LMSW, a dedicated mental health care provider whose work centers around supporting individuals through complex emotional challenges. Kara recently spoke with us about her therapeutic approach, the importance of finding the right provider, and how she practices self-care. Here’s what she shared:
Specialty & Approach To Therapy
Kara works with patients navigating a wide range of concerns, including process addictions like sex, pornography, food, and shopping. As a Licensed Master Social Worker, she also has extensive experience supporting those facing depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, family of origin issues, trauma, relationship difficulties, boundary-setting, low self-esteem, and domestic violence.
In her practice, Kara employs a variety of evidence-based treatments to provide patients with a well-rounded approach that addresses their unique lived experience and background. She draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), psychoeducation, supportive counseling, person-centered therapy, and inner-child work.
She feels this multidimensional approach helps individuals get unstuck and offers a meaningful space to safely explore their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. For Kara, understanding past experiences plays a crucial role in developing healthier coping strategies for the present.
“I like to have a holistic approach — looking at childhood, current and past relationships, behaviors, personality traits, and other things to help people understand themselves and the issues they’re having.”
Through psychoeducation, this committed clinician helps clients explore possible causes and underlying issues. In her view, building awareness of root causes is essential to learning practical skills to address challenges.
Advice To Those Seeking Care
Kara encourages those starting their mental health journey to take the time to find a provider they truly connect with. “Therapists are not one-size-fits-all,” she says. “Therapy should be a safe place where you can be your most honest and vulnerable self.”
She emphasizes the importance of asking questions and being open if a provider doesn’t feel like the right fit. At the end of the day, you’re taking a brave first step and deserve to find the perfect match for you.
Finding Balance Through Self-Care
Kara knows the value of practicing what she teaches. For her, self-care often looks like a cup of coffee with a book while sitting outside.
Another underrated aspect of self-care? The role of boundaries in maintaining balance. “Knowing what I can and cannot say yes to, so I can show up and be the best version of myself for others, is key in maintaining good mental health.”
Ready to write the next chapter in your mental health story? Compassionate providers like Kara are ready to walk beside you every step of the way. Reach out to learn more and find a provider to start receiving the support and care you deserve.
