Albany Therapists
Kara M. Chance, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Hi! My name is Kara M. Chance. I would describe myself as energetic, kind, reliable, caring, compassionate, and empathetic, with a lighthearted sense of humor. I thrive in a clinical setting and enjoy being part of my clients’ mental health and healing journeys.
I love the Pacific Northwest and all it has to offer—hiking, exploring, traveling, and spending time outdoors, especially with close friends and family. I also have a soft spot for my black standard poodle, Willow, who is an amazing travel companion with a big heart for people.
I make a consistent effort to self-reflect and look inward, working to grow as a person who experiences a full range of thoughts and emotions. My goal is to become the best version of myself. In addition to spending time outdoors, I enjoy strength training, conditioning, and cardio at the gym. I also prioritize nutrition through planning, meal prepping, and cooking.
Learning is a true passion of mine, and it allows me to continually expand my clinical mental health skills in ways that benefit both me and my clients. I believe that caring for the body, mind, and soul—especially through connection with nature—helps us navigate all aspects of life.
Kara's Approach
As a clinical mental health therapist, I strive to promote self-determination, empowerment, and social justice for all of my clients. I meet clients where they are, help them develop a path that best suits their needs, and offer guidance throughout the process. I am fully present with each client and genuinely care about their well-being and healing.
As an open-minded person, I value collaboration, build strong rapport, model authenticity and lightness when appropriate, encourage self-reflection, and create a safe, supportive space where clients feel understood.
The therapeutic relationship is powerful, and the work accomplished can be deeply rewarding for both client and therapist. I am honored to be in this profession and feel it is exactly where I am meant to be.
More About Kara Chance
Experience
I started my career within the social services field prior to becoming a clinical mental health therapist. I have experience working with a variety of ages, different populations, identities, cultures, as well as varying symptoms, and diagnosis’.
I work with clients therapeutically, using a client-centered approach and meeting each individual where they are. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Family Systems, Solution Focused, Attachment Theory, Strengths Based, Humanistic, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, Narrative and Psychodynamic Therapies, through the lens of empowerment and social justice.
Education
Master of Social Work Degree (MSW), St. Ambrose University Bachelor of Arts, Psychology and Human Services (Double Major), Buena Vista University
Can I Help You?
I treat patients for:
- Anxiety, worry, stress, panic
- Bipolar Disorder
- Depression, grief, loss, sadness
- LGBTQIA+ Related Issues
- OCD: Obsessive-Compulsive Thoughts or Actions
- Relationship struggles (couple, family, or parenting)
- Traumatic events/ Trauma/ PTSD
- Other
