Karen Tinsley, LCSW

Preferred Name: Karen

Online Therapy

About Me

As a mental healthcare professional, educator, and advocate, I am always looking for new ways to provide care for anyone seeking help. Many factors contribute to one's life story including trauma, family history, relationship problems, health, and societal issues. My approach is based on understanding each person as a whole, not just the trials or diagnosis they’re facing. I firmly believe in delivering treatment that is both empathetic and uplifting for everyone I have the honor to work with. I address mental health issues by highlighting the strengths of individuals, families, and their communities--all while bringing psychotherapeutic services to support the process. My years of expertise in the field, passion for serving others, and ability to connect on a personal basis are what I feel make me such a strong force for positive change in my own community and beyond.

Education & Experience

After receiving my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California, I began working as an LCSW in 2000. I’ve held numerous positions over the years, from clinical positions in the community and school system, to serving as the Behavioral Health Director at a federally qualified health center. I have also been named the Associate Director of a supportive housing program for chronically homeless Veterans (VASH), Director of Programs at AIDS Service Center, Lead Clinician at Cedars Sinai/Thalians Mental Health Center and Director of Clinical Services for YWCA-SGV. I am also an adjunct faculty member for the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work.

Professional & Volunteer Affiliations

Through my therapy, teaching, and volunteer work with groups like the National Association of Mental Illness (NAMI) and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., I address mental health issues by highlighting the strengths of individuals, families, and their communities.

Specialty Area

  • Abuse/Neglect
  • Anxiety/Panic Attacks
  • Chronic Illness/Medical Issues
  • Depression
  • Domestic Violence
  • Family Issues
  • Grief/Loss/Mourning
  • Headaches/Migraines
  • Marriage/Relationship Issues
  • Mood Disorders
  • Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
  • Race, Culture, Ethnicity Issues
  • Somatic Issues
  • Stress Management
  • Traumatic Incident

Population Served

  • Adults
  • Couples
  • Group
  • Seniors
  • Underserved
  • Veterans/Military

Language

  • English

Insurance

  • Aetna
  • Sliding Scale