Karen Zelaya-KendallPA Psychologist PS016415, CA Psychologist 34533

Karen Zelaya-Kendall is a clinical psychologist who helps people manage stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and the challenges of pregnancy and childbirth. He draws on nearly three decades of clinical work to create practical plans that fit daily life. Karen aims to help people feel steadier and more able to cope with sudden changes or ongoing struggles.

He earned a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from St. John's University and also holds a master’s and bachelor’s degree in psychology. Over the years he has worked in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. That varied background means he has experience with evaluations, individual therapy, group work, and program-level supervision.

In therapy he begins by teaching skills people can use right away to function better day to day. He uses cognitive behavioral approaches to identify unhelpful thinking and build new patterns. For people affected by trauma, he offers approaches aimed at reducing distress tied to memories and triggers.

He also has experience with treatments for mood and perinatal-related difficulties, including postpartum depression and other concerns around pregnancy and childbirth. He includes strategies for impulse control, panic and mood symptoms when those are contributing to a person’s distress.

Sessions focus on clear goals and practical steps. Karen works collaboratively with each person to set priorities and measure progress. He encourages straightforward talk and concrete tools that can be practiced between appointments.

How evidence-based approaches translate to online care

Karen uses cognitive behavioral techniques to help people notice thought patterns, test unhelpful beliefs, and build new coping habits. This approach works well for anxiety, depression, panic, and problems that affect day-to-day functioning because it focuses on steps you can practice between sessions.

He also offers trauma-focused methods that address distress linked to upsetting memories and reactions. These methods involve gradual processing and skills to reduce overwhelming responses so people can regain control over daily life. For perinatal and postpartum concerns he draws on treatments that target mood and anxiety around pregnancy, with attention to practical strategies for new parents.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. He will collaborate with each person to match methods to their goals, symptoms, and preferences. That might mean starting with skills to stabilize functioning, then adding trauma-focused work or mood management as needed.

The therapist's biography does not list the online session formats offered, so please confirm current options before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule, reduce travel time, and allow for shorter check-ins when needed. Licensed professionals can use remote work to maintain continuity of care when life circumstances make in-person visits difficult.