Karina Leeds, LMFT

(She/Her) |

Counselor:

Adults, Couples, Families, Parents, Teens

Karina works collaboratively with each client, empowering them to unravel their current struggles, while building their psychological toolboxes. She is focused on treating anxiety/panic, depression, grief & loss, low self-esteem, trauma, addictions, and relationship issues. At the heart of her practice, she establishes emotional safety with her clients, listens for their interpretations of the root cause(s) of their concerns, and encourages them to tune inward with compassion and skill.

She uses a variety of techniques to help clients break out of old patterns and align closer to their authentic selves. Working within the framework of family systems theory, Karina keeps in mind the profound impact a client’s family of origin has on the way they show up to the world in the present moment. Her therapeutic interventions are informed by Somatic Experiencing, Trauma Conscious Yoga Method, polyvagal theory, and parts-work. Karina also utilizes EMDR to help clients dial down the intensity and disruption of past distress and trauma.

Karina approaches her therapeutic relationships with genuineness, plays upon each client’s strengths and quirks, and supports her clients to lean into vulnerability. While she can guide clients through emotionally heavy sessions with empathy, Karina loves to laugh with her clients, too.

Areas of Specialty

Relationship Issues
Substance Use
Families
Adolescent Issues
Building Connections

Fees

$155 per session for individuals

$170 per session for couples & families

Practice Location(s)

Why Therapy?

I was a very empathic child and always felt my emotions strongly. I was introduced to therapy during my adolescence, and since then, I felt drawn to create safe spaces for others to express themselves freely. As I grew up and pursued my degrees, I noticed that my overall personality and interactions were naturally therapeutic, and this gave me further confirmation that being a therapist was the right career choice for me. It is such a liberating feeling to let your thoughts and feelings out, even if they are scary and uncomfortable. My passion stems from my clients reaching a place where they feel truly heard, valued, and important. I believe these are some of the first steps towards mental well-being.

Professional Motivation

I love learning from my clients. The therapeutic relationship is mutual and collaborative. A client may start therapy to learn more about themselves and how they can live a more fulfilled life. All the while, maintaining a curious and non-judgmental stance, I learn so much from their unique life story and experiences.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of Miami; Master of Science in Education (MS.Ed) in Counseling/Marriage and Family Therapy from University of Miami

Hobbies

Practicing yoga, indoor cycling, being in the fresh air, walking, hanging out with my two panther chameleons and any other animals I come across, cooking plant-based meals and trying all of the awesome vegan restaurants in Austin.

Previous Occupations

Before Just Mind, I have worked at a university setting facilitating mental health outreach, a university-affiliated counseling center, an outpatient substance abuse treatment center, and at a dog training company. I hope that one day, I can combine my passions for therapy and for working with animals.