Kara JustoLCSW

Kara Justo is a licensed clinical social worker with 21 years of professional experience. She focuses on helping people handle stress, anxiety, and the ups and downs that come with parenting and postpartum challenges. She also supports people managing mood difficulties, depression, bipolar symptoms, grief, and struggles with self-esteem, impulse control, and addictive behaviors.

She aims to make sessions relaxed and straightforward. Kara creates a space where clients can talk about feelings and worries without judgment. She encourages small, doable steps toward better day-to-day functioning and clearer thinking.

In sessions she listens closely and helps people sort priorities. She works with clients on skills for managing anger, reducing anxiety, and improving motivation. When parenting issues or family stress come up, she helps people find practical ways to cope and set boundaries.

Kara draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques to address obsessive or compulsive behaviors, disruptively intense moods such as Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, and the fallout from domestic violence or divorce and separation. She also offers support for postpartum depression and other perinatal concerns.

Her approach is collaborative and grounded in real-life goals. Clients can expect clear feedback, a focus on what’s working, and concrete strategies to try between sessions. She practices in Connecticut and delivers care in English.

How evidence-based methods translate to online care

Evidence-based therapeutic techniques focus on practical tools and clear steps. One common approach teaches skills for managing anxiety and improving daily routines; it helps with panic, worry, and stress by breaking problems into small, manageable tasks. Another approach targets mood regulation and impulsivity by teaching ways to notice triggers, pause, and choose different responses; this can assist with mood swings, anger, and behaviors tied to impulse control.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will talk with clients about their goals, preferences, and what has or hasn't helped in the past. Together they decide which techniques to try and adjust methods over time based on progress and feedback.

If you are considering online therapy, confirm the session formats available before booking. Many people find online sessions easier to fit into a busy day, since they can reduce travel time and allow scheduling around childcare or work. Some formats let clients use audio only for a shorter check-in when needed, while others use video for deeper conversational work. Discussing format options during the initial matching and scheduling steps helps match sessions to everyday life and goals.