As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have over 30 years of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based care across diverse populations and settings. I have worked in group private practice and served as a Senior Clinician in the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center’s Mood Disorders Clinic. Most recently, I held the role of Director of Resident Psychotherapy Training at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic.
I earned my doctorate from Virginia Commonwealth University and completed my internship at the Pittsburgh Consortium-VAMC. A former Air Force Officer, I began my teaching career at the U.S. Air Force Academy and have since taught at both undergraduate and graduate levels at local colleges and universities.
Specializing in the treatment of mood disorders, I offer psychological care to adults and seniors. My clinical orientation is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, but over time, I have developed a more eclectic approach that emphasizes the importance of being heard without judgment.
Bringing a wealth of experience from both public and private clinical environments I am deeply committed to helping clients navigate emotional challenges with clarity, resilience, and hope.
I provide thoughtful, personalized care that honors each client's unique journey and individual needs. My approach is grounded in respect, empathy, and a genuine desire to support personal growth and healing.
Additional areas of focus: Addictions, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Anger management, Coping with life changes, BDSM, kink, and alternative sex culture, Dependent personality, Veteran and Armed Forces Issues, Mood disorders, Personality disorders, Post-traumatic stress, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused Therapy
PA Psychologist PS006207L
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Dr. Karen Katunich. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Excellent
Written on Sep 22, 2025 after therapy with Karen for 8 months on issues concerning trauma and abuse, grief, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue
10/10 recommend!
Written on Jun 05, 2025 after therapy with Karen for 8 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, intimacy-related issues, eating disorders, sleeping disorders, self esteem, coping with life changes, compassion fatigue, and adhd
I have only known her for a few short weeks however I feel like I trust her like she’s been in my life forever. I value her ability to listen to me, I trust her advice and I feel like she has my best interest. I was not a fan of therapy before but after speaking with her, if anyone can, I recommend it.
Written on Oct 14, 2024 after therapy with Karen for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, sleeping disorders, parenting issues, self esteem, career difficulties, coping with life changes, coaching, and adhd
Dr. Katunich has helped me examine my specific situation in away that has been effective in relieving my anxiety and has enabled me to overcome my panic attacks and focus on goals that I have set for my self.
She listens well and was able to catch my trigger when in a live session.
I truly can recommend her if you are in crisis.
I feel her years of experience was evident even after my first session with her.
Written on Aug 20, 2024 after therapy with Karen for 8 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, and trauma and abuse
Her expertise is obvious and she’s great
Written on Nov 22, 2023 after therapy with Karen for 1 month on issues concerning coping with life changes
Karen is wonderful and incredibly experienced. Highly recommend her!
Written on Jul 31, 2023 after therapy with Karen for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, parenting issues, self esteem, anger management, career difficulties, bipolar disorder, coping with life changes, coaching, and adhd