Mindfullness Practices

Kara Joseph is a poet, poetry therapist, and clinical social worker whose work lives at the intersection of language, healing, and human connection. With over 25 years of experience, she has cultivated a practice that honors poetry not only as an art form, but as a vital force for transformation, meaning-making, and emotional integration.

As a Certified Poetry Therapist through the International Federation for Biblio/Poetry Therapy, Kara integrates carefully chosen poems, literature, and expressive writing into her work—prescribing language as a form of medicine. Rooted in a long-standing tradition that dates back to ancient civilizations, where poetry and story were used to soothe suffering and restore balance, her approach draws on the enduring understanding that words can reach places within us that language alone cannot.

Kara’s work is deeply informed by holistic psychotherapy, blending mindfulness-based cognitive approaches with expressive arts and narrative practices. She is also board certified in bariatric counseling and provides bariatric therapy, supporting individuals navigating the emotional, psychological, and identity shifts that accompany weight loss and metabolic health journeys. Across her work, she specializes in supporting adults through life transitions, grief and loss, chronic and serious illness, and relational challenges—creating space for complexity, coexisting truths, and the quiet unfolding of meaning.

In addition to her clinical work, Kara is an editor for the Journal of Poetry Therapy and a member of the National Association for Poetry Therapy. Her own poetry has been published in journals and anthologies, reflecting her commitment to both the craft and the lived experience of poetry.

Through all aspects of her work, Kara returns to a central belief: that poetry helps us remember ourselves—our names, our stories, and our place within the wider human experience.

MA LICSW #113710

Holistic Individual Psychotherapy

I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, chronic or serious illness, life transitions, relationship challenges, caregiver fatigue, and identity shifts. Sessions are tailored to your needs and may integrate evidence-based practices such as mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), somatic awareness, nervous system regulation, and motivational interviewing.

Our work focuses on both insight and skill-building — helping you understand patterns while developing practical tools for emotional regulation, resilience, and meaningful behavioral change.

Poetry Therapy & Expressive Writing

For those drawn to creative reflection, poetry therapy offers a gentle yet powerful pathway into emotional healing. You do not need to be a writer. Through selected poems, guided prompts, journaling, and exploration of metaphor, we use language as a bridge to clarity, meaning-making, self-compassion, and integration. Poetry therapy is available in both individual and group formats and can be woven into traditional psychotherapy or stand alone as a creative therapeutic process.

Bariatric & Obesity-Focused Therapy

I provide specialized therapy for individuals living with obesity — whether preparing for or recovering from bariatric surgery, using medications, or working toward sustainable lifestyle change.

Together, we address emotional eating, binge patterns, shame, body image shifts, identity changes, mood concerns, weight regain, and long-term habit formation using CBT, ACT, mindfulness-based interventions, and behavioral strategies. The goal is not simply weight loss, but lasting change, improved emotional regulation, and a healthier relationship with food and body by addressing the root psychological issues contributing to the chronic disease of obesity.

As part of bariatric services, I also provide comprehensive pre-surgical psychological evaluations in accordance with ASMBS guidelines. These assessments help ensure emotional readiness, identify potential barriers, and support long-term surgical success. As both a clinician and a bariatric surgery patient myself, I bring professional expertise and lived understanding to this process.

Services

Holistic Psychotherapy

Poetry Therapy

Bariatric Therapy

Contact Me