Meet Karen McKinney, LCSW, LCADC-S

photo of Karen McKinney, LCSW, LCADC therapist in Reno at Individual & Relationship Counseling Associates specializing in addiction and trauma

Relationship & Addiction Therapy in Reno

Therapy for addiction and relationship issues in Reno, NV with Karen, McKinney. Karen also treats anxiety, depression and trauma. With more than eight years of experience, she helps individuals and couples understand their emotions, build resilience, and create lasting change.


Therapy Services with Karen McKinney in Reno, NV

Karen works with clients on a wide range of concerns, including:

  • Relationship issues
  • Anxiety and depression
  • PTSD and trauma
  • Addiction and recovery
  • Other mental health challenges

She views behavior as a natural response to life’s challenges and provides a safe, empathetic space where clients feel seen and supported on their path to healing.


Karen’s Therapy Approach

Karen combines evidence-based therapies with a compassionate, strengths-focused style to help clients achieve meaningful growth. Her specialized training includes:

Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFCT)

  • An attachment-based, research-supported approach for couples.
  • Helps partners reduce conflict, rebuild trust, and create deeper emotional connection.

Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT)

  • Based in attachment science, EFIT helps clients understand emotional patterns and strengthen self-regulation.
  • Promotes long-term emotional well-being.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

  • Effective for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and phobias.
  • Supported by thousands of studies, EMDR helps accelerate recovery and transformation.

Motivational Interviewing

  • A collaborative, strengths-based method.
  • Supports self-awareness and empowers clients to make lasting change.

Karen’s person-centered style creates a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore challenges and embrace their potential.


Why Karen Became a Therapist

Later in life, Karen returned to school to follow her passion for helping people heal emotionally. She finds it deeply rewarding to witness clients:

  • Gain clarity around emotional patterns
  • Build self-esteem and confidence
  • Develop healthy coping strategies
  • Create more fulfilling lives

She understands that change is difficult but knows the rewards are profound and lasting.


About Reno Therapist Karen McKinney

Karen lives in Reno, NV, with her husband and two dogs. She and her husband recently purchased an RV and enjoy exploring Nevada’s landscapes. A proud mother of three and grandmother of six, Karen treasures her family roles.

Her personal experience with addiction and mental health challenges allows her to connect with clients on a deeper level, offering compassion and real understanding.


Getting Started with Therapy in Reno

  • Standard session fee: $150
  • Insurance accepted: Hometown Health
  • Limited sliding scale options available

If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, you don’t have to face it alone. Karen offers a safe and supportive space to begin healing.

Call 775-235-2205 today to schedule an appointment with Karen McKinney, LCSW, LCADC in Reno, NV.