Kara is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life’s most complex transitions. Her background spans hospitals, birth centers, nursing homes, and dialysis units—experiences that deeply shape her compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy. Kara meets clients where they are, especially during seasons of uncertainty, change, and emotional overwhelm.

Kara works with adolescents and adults ages 16 and older and has a particular focus on the intersection of perinatal mental health, caregiver stress, and medically complex family experiences. She supports clients navigating pregnancy and postpartum adjustment, high-risk pregnancies, infertility, birth trauma, and the emotional toll of caring for a child or loved one with chronic illness or medical needs. Her work often includes grief and loss—both tangible losses and the more complicated grief of unmet expectations, disrupted plans, and altered visions for the future.

Kara brings a deeply personal understanding to this work through her years of involvement in cleft and craniofacial care. She recognizes the medical trauma, emotional strain, and ongoing uncertainty families face, as well as the resilience required to move forward. This insight informs her passion for supporting parents, caregivers, and individuals coping with health-related stress, chronic illness, burnout, and major life transitions.

In addition to her specialty focus, Kara works with anxiety, depression, career stress, end-of-life concerns, and broader experiences of grief and loss. She believes healing grows through honest conversations, shared support, and a therapeutic relationship grounded in trust and compassion. Kara considers it an honor to walk alongside clients as they navigate life’s most challenging seasons.

Kara earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of North Dakota and is currently accepting new clients for both in-person and Telehealth therapy.

Location: 10505 Wayzata Blvd, Suite 203-8, Minnetonka, MN 55305

Kara sees clients In-Person (Minnetonka) or via Telehealth.

Healing Smiles Counseling LLC

Independent Contractor

Direct Phone: (612) 516-3177

Email: kara.ausen@knowthyselfpllc.com

Kara will be taking Self-Pay and EAP clients starting in March 2026. Accepting Insurance Coming Soon!