top of page

Do you find yourself constantly worrying, overthinking, or feeling like you can never quite do enough? Maybe you're the person everyone depends on, yet inside you're exhausted from carrying so much. You may struggle with perfectionism, people-pleasing, self-doubt, or an ongoing sense of pressure that never seems to let up.

From the outside, your life may look successful and put together, but internally you feel overwhelmed, self-critical, or disconnected from yourself. You know something needs to change, but you're not sure where to begin.

You may also be navigating a major life transition, relationship challenges, burnout, or a season of feeling stuck. Whatever brings you to therapy, you don't have to figure it out alone.

My approach is grounded in Internal Family Systems (IFS), a compassionate and effective therapy that helps you understand the different parts of yourself that shape your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Instead of judging or trying to get rid of the parts that create anxiety, perfectionism, or self-criticism, we'll explore them with curiosity and compassion. As we understand what these parts are trying to protect, healing and lasting change become possible.

Together, we'll create a space where you can slow down, gain clarity, develop greater self-trust, and reconnect with the calm, confident Self that already exists within you.

Areas of Interest 

a woman looking anxious .jpg

Anxiety and Overthinking 

 I will help you to understand anxiety and overthinking with curiosity rather than self-criticism. Together, we explore the protective parts of you that may work overtime through worry, perfectionism, or constant mental analysis in an effort to keep you safe. As these patterns begin to make more sense, clients often experience greater calm, self-compassion, emotional balance, and the ability to respond to life with more clarity and confidence.

lack of confidence, shy woman, in her 40's , looking down, wrying hands .jpg

Perfectionism & People Pleasing​

Many people who struggle with perfectionism and people pleasing carry a deep fear of disappointing others, making mistakes, or not being enough. Through an IFS approach, I help clients understand the protective parts of themselves that work so hard to keep the peace, stay in control, or earn approval. Rather than judging these patterns, we explore them with compassion and curiosity, creating space for healthier boundaries, greater self-trust, and a more grounded sense of worth that is not dependent on performance or pleasing others.

a man clenching himself like he is in distress .jpg

Internal Conflict, Burnout & Change 

Burnout and feeling stuck often come from internal systems that are overloaded or in conflict. Therapy helps bring more clarity, balance, and internal understanding during transitions.

About Me

A Certified IFS Therapist 

IMG_3282.jpeg

 I have a master's degree in counseling from Rhode Island College and over 26 years of experience helping people navigate their mental health journeys. I strive to be respectful, gentle, and compassionate, making sure we work together in a collaborative way. When I'm not working, I love kayaking, crafting, house projects, and volunteering in my faith community. I understand the challenges of dating in a digital world after many years of being single. I am married with adult step children.

Services Offered

Telehealth video sessions with Adults only.​Check out the other tabs on this website including information on what you can expect from therapy, fees, and more on IFS therapy.  

ethnic woman looking at her laptop engaging in conversation .jpg
Feedback I’ve Received

Karen  was amazing with her support, guidance, and constructive feedback. She helped me gain better skills and coping strategies to help me deal more effectively with my daughter.

Contact Me

I am licensed in Massachusetts and Rhode Island

617-230-3180

Thanks for submitting!

Karen Welch Buttars LMHC

bottom of page