Karen Bridwell, M.A., LPC
Karen Bridwell has spent most of her life living in the Chicago area. She started out her professional career in insurance, working in the field for over 25 years. "It took time for me to recognize and listen to God’s calling for my life; to support and empower His people when they are facing challenges in their lives." After acknowledging and answering His call, she returned to school and acquired her Masters Degree in Clinical Professional Psychology through Roosevelt University, after having served an internship at a crisis center working with diverse cultures and populations. She obtained her license as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) earlier this year and is also a member of the American Counselors Association.
She has experience advocating for people who suffer from the trauma associated with domestic abuse, including physical, emotional, verbal, and sexual abuse. She is able to empathize with those facing the difficulties associated with the myriad of challenges that result from domestic abuse, including the mental health issues of diminished self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress. She is experienced in providing both individual and group counseling for victims of domestic abuse and continues to lead a domestic violence support group once a week. She has provided support to women who have been sexually assaulted as well. Other areas of experience she possesses include assisting individuals facing health-related, life-changing issues and their families, and she currently volunteers through a non-profit organization visiting and assisting homebound senior citizens with her dog.
"My prior business and life experiences, along with my education and training, are assets I bring to counseling. I enjoy listening to and helping those in need and seeing how God is present and working in the lives of His people. God created individuals as physical beings with emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs; therefore, I believe it is essential to address these areas through counseling as well. I know I have been called by God to assist people facing challenges in their lives, and I will do so with a non-judgmental attitude, honesty, and a servant’s heart."
