Therapist profile
Karissa Thomas, LMSW
Licensed MSW - Family and parenting focus
Continue with KarissaAbout
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Attachment-Based approach
About Karissa
Karissa Thomas is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) practicing in Michigan with seven years of clinical experience. She supports adults facing relationship strain, parenting stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, addiction concerns, and many other challenges related to family and life transitions.
Karissa uses a direct and curious style in sessions. She treats the person in front of her as the expert on their life and asks practical questions to identify what’s most pressing. Conversations are straightforward and sometimes light; she is willing to bring a sense of humor when it suits the work.
Her approach draws from several therapeutic methods, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy. That translates into a mix of skills practice, attention to relationships and feelings, and time spent on what matters most day to day.
Karissa has experience addressing a wide range of concerns tied to family life, such as parenting strain, blended family issues, adoption and foster care questions, and communication problems. She also supports people navigating identity and intimacy-related struggles, body image and eating issues, chronic illness stress, and work or career-related difficulties.
Sessions are aimed at helping people find clearer priorities, learn practical coping skills, and make steady changes that fit their life. She offers services in English and will work with international clients who can connect from outside the United States.
How sessions work
How Karissa uses specific approaches in online sessions
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice difficult thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them. It focuses on clarifying values and taking actions that match what matters, which can help with grief, anxiety, and life changes.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) targets unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns. It usually involves practical exercises and skill practice to reduce anxiety, treat mood concerns, and improve daily functioning.
Attachment-Based Therapy looks at how close relationships shape emotional reactions and coping. It can be useful when communication problems, intimacy issues, or attachment difficulties are part of the concern.
Finding the right approach is part of the work. Karissa will discuss what methods seem most useful based on the client’s goals and preferences. She works collaboratively to adjust strategies as needs change over time.
Confirm the available session formats before booking so you know how she currently meets with clients. Many people find online sessions easier to schedule around parenting, work, and caregiving responsibilities. Online work can make it simpler to check in during a break, practice skills in everyday settings, or follow up more consistently between appointments.
Areas of focus
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
7+ years
Listed in
Michigan
Languages
English
Questions
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of family or parenting concerns are addressed?
She helps people with parenting strain, blended family issues, adoption and foster care questions, and communication problems that affect home life.
How would you describe her therapy style?
Her style is direct and curious. Sessions focus on practical steps and honest conversation, with room for lightness when appropriate.
How much clinical experience does she have?
Karissa has seven years of clinical experience working with adults on a wide range of concerns linked to family and personal stress.
What is her credential and where is she based?
She is an LMSW, which stands for Licensed Master Social Worker, and practices in Michigan.
Are sessions offered in other languages or to people abroad?
Sessions are offered in English and she accepts international clients who can connect from outside the United States.
What session formats are available?
Please confirm current session options before booking so you know which formats are offered for your location and situation.
How does payment work?
Cost varies with location and services; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I start a first session?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule your first session through the platform.
Details come from information the therapist supplied to BetterHelp. A license can be checked with the state board.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If anyone is in danger, use the crisis numbers.