Karen Helmes(She/Her/Hers)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
New Jersey•Virginia
Anxiety -Caregiver stress & support-Chronic illness-Chronic pain- Depression-Perfectionism-
Karen Helmes
Vetted
(She/Her/Hers)
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Professional statement
Living with a chronic illness can feel overwhelming, especially when it impacts your mental health. At Anam Cara Counseling and Supervision LLC, we specialize in helping individuals navigate the anxiety and depression that often accompany chronic illness. Together, we’ll work through the grief of losing the life you envisioned, and create space for acceptance and hope.
Our goal is to support you in finding fulfillment, even in the face of challenges. Through a compassionate, collaborative approach, we’ll explore strategies to manage your illness, strengthen your resilience, and discover ways to enjoy a meaningful quality of life. With extensive experience in counseling and a background in psychology, mental health counseling, and social work, I understand the unique struggles of chronic illness—not just for individuals, but within their families and communities. I’m here to provide the understanding, tools, and support you need to reclaim a quality of life that you deserve.
My practice is virtual only. My schedule includes Monday through Thursday and I am able to meet as early as 6:00 am and my last sessions are scheduled for 3:00.
Work and Education
Years of Experience: 10 years
Anam Cara Counseling and Supervision LLC , Owner/Therapist, 2023 - Present
Waves of Change and Healing LLC , Therapist , 2023 - Present
Acenda Health , Therapist , 2015 - 2022
Capella University, Masters of Counseling, 2015
Richard Stockton University, Bachelors of Science in Social Work, 2006
Richard Stockton University, Bachelors of Art in Psychology, 1996
Licensure
New Jersey: 37PC00631200 - Virginia: 0701013948Languages
EnglishSpecialties
Anxiety - Coping with excessive worry, nervousness, or stress; intense discomfort in social settings (social anxiety); sudden and intense feelings of panic (panic disorder)
Caregiver stress & support - Coping with anxiety, stress, fatigue, and burnout related to caring for a loved one; balancing the needs of others with one's own needs and health
Chronic illness - Receiving a diagnosis; adjusting to lifestyle and medication changes; coping with related changes in mood, emotions, and relationships; managing symptoms and stress
Chronic pain - Managing the biological, psychological, and emotional aspects of pain
Depression - Providing support and promoting healing of hopelessness, low motivation and energy, sadness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and loss of interest and pleasure in life
Perfectionism - Coping with feelings of anxiety, stress, self-criticism, and procrastination; addressing unrealistic expectations of one’s self and negatively comparing self to others
General expertise
Treatment approaches
Clientele
- Adults (24+)
- Seniors (65+)
- Young adults (18-24)
Locations & Hours
Insurance
- Aetna (in-network in NJ, VA)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield (in-network in NJ)
- Carelon (in-network in NJ, VA)
- Cigna (in-network in NJ, VA)
- Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (in-network in NJ)
- Meritain Health (in-network in NJ)
- Optum (in-network in NJ)
- Oscar Health (in-network in NJ, VA)
- Oxford Health Plans (in-network in NJ, VA)
- UMR (in-network in NJ)
- United Healthcare (in-network in NJ, VA)
Out-of-pocket fees
- Individual sessions:$150 (55min)
Book a Free Initial Consultation
The practice will call you for a free 10min phone call to discuss your needs and ensure a match!
This provider has no upcoming call times available.