Dr. Karen Katunich , PA Psychologist PS006207L

Dr. Karen Katunich is a licensed clinical psychologist who has spent over 30 years providing evidence-based, compassionate care across a range of clinical settings. She is licensed in Pennsylvania as PA Psychologist PS006207L, a credential that reflects her standing as a practicing psychologist in the state.

Her clinical background spans group private practice and significant roles in specialty care, including service as a Senior Clinician in the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center's Mood Disorders Clinic and work as Director of Resident Psychotherapy Training at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic. These positions reflect a sustained focus on mood disorders and training the next generation of therapists.

Dr. Katunich earned her doctorate from Virginia Commonwealth University and completed her internship at the Pittsburgh Consortium-Veterans Affairs Medical Center. A former Air Force Officer, she began her teaching career at the U.S. Air Force Academy and has taught at both undergraduate and graduate levels at local colleges and universities.

Rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy yet informed by an eclectic, client-centered perspective, she emphasizes respectful, nonjudgmental listening and personalized treatment plans for adults and older adults. Her work concentrates on mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, relationship and family issues, addictions, and other life transitions, with a practice approach aimed at fostering clarity, resilience, and meaningful change.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Dr. Karen Katunich integrates several well-established approaches into her clinical work to address mood, anxiety, trauma, relationship, and addiction-related concerns. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors; it is practical and often helpful for depression, anxiety, and mood regulation. Client-Centered Therapy centers on empathy, active listening, and creating a nonjudgmental space so clients can explore their values and goals; it supports self-esteem, life transitions, and relationship concerns. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) combines acceptance and change strategies and teaches skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, which can be useful for intense emotions and difficulty managing relationships.

Finding the right mix of approaches is part of the therapeutic process. Dr. Katunich works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting the plan as therapy progresses.

Online therapy offers practical advantages for this work. Video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging allow licensed professionals to provide consistent care with greater scheduling flexibility and easier access for those who cannot travel. These options support continuity of treatment and make it simpler to engage in regular sessions from home or other convenient locations.