Karen L. Lee, Owner

Karen L. Lee brings over two decades of experience as a psychotherapist to the practice, offering a compassionate, interactive, and collaborative approach to therapy. Since 1997, Karen has dedicated her career to helping individuals, couples, and families develop and maintain healthy relationships. One of her practice mottos is, “Relationship success is life success.” This approach makes her a sought-after therapist for those looking to strengthen their connections and resolve conflicts.

Identity and Specialization

Karen's personal background as a female working mother and Cantonese speaker adds depth to her therapy practice. Her diverse identity helps her connect with clients from various cultural and familial backgrounds. She specializes in addressing relationship issues, family conflict, and mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety.

Karen’s Therapy Approach

Karen's training and experience means she has a well-rounded perspective, making her equally adept at addressing the needs of men and women as well as individuals, couples, and families. Many couples specifically seek her guidance due to her “pro-marriage” stance, as she emphasizes nurturing partnerships while addressing challenges constructively. Her work is characterized by a commitment to empowering clients to master relationship skills that promote long-term success and fulfillment.

Karen utilizes a variety of evidence-based therapy methods tailored to her clients’ unique needs. These include:

  • Imago relationship therapy – focused on improving communication and understanding in relationships.

  • The Gottman Method – a research-based approach to enhancing marital relationships.

  • Emotionally focused therapy – geared toward creating secure emotional bonds between individuals.

  • Object relations and attachment-based therapy – exploring early life experiences and their impact on present relationships.

  • Experiential therapy – an approach to therapy emphasizing hands-on, action-oriented techniques.

  • Trauma-focused and strength-based therapy – helping clients heal from past traumas and build on their inherent strengths.

Locations and Accessibility

Karen serves clients in-person in the Santa Clarita Valley. She also provides therapy services for those who prefer the flexibility of online sessions. Karen offers virtual therapy to clients throughout California, ensuring her services are accessible to a wide audience and fit even the busiest schedules.

Fees and Insurance

For therapy services, Karen accepts all major credit cards and offers support for clients using out-of-network insurance benefits. Upon request, clients can receive Superbills for reimbursement submissions to their insurance carriers.

Pricing for services:

  • Individual Sessions: $175 for a 50-minute session.

  • Couples and Family Sessions: $250 for 75 minutes or $300 for 90 minutes.

Credentials and Memberships

Karen holds a degree from Fuller Theological Seminary School of Psychology. She also has dual licensure as a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#38665) and a California Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (#927) as well as being a proud member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. Karen has the necessary training and education to provide advanced therapy solutions.

Take the First Step

If you're ready to work toward a healthier, more fulfilling relationship or more satisfying daily life, Karen is here to help. She offers a free initial consultation. Contact her today to begin your journey to emotional wellness and relationship success! Start by filling out our online booking form, call or text us at (424) 703-5338, or email info@essecounseling.com.

At A Glance

  • Female

    Working Mother

    Speaks Cantonese

    • Relationship Issues

    • Family Conflict

    • Depression and Anxiety

    • Imago Relationship Therapy

    • The Gottman Method

    • Object Relations

    • Emotionally Focused Therapy

    • Attachment-based Therapy

    • Experiential Therapy

    • Trauma Focused

    • Strength-Based

  • Fees

    • Individual Session Cost: $175 per 50-minute session

    • Couples Session Cost: $250 per 75-minute session, $300 per 90-minute session

    • Family Session Cost: $250 per 75-minute session, $300 per 90-minute session

    Payment Method

    • All major credit cards. 

    Insurance

    • Out-of Pocket payments for clients using out-of-network benefits.

    We provide Superbills to clients as requested (after each session, monthly, etc.). Superbills can be submitted to insurance carriers to request reimbursement.

  • Licensure:

    • California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#38665)

    • California Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (# 927)

    Professional Memberships

    • California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

    • Practicing psychotherapy since 1997

    • Fuller Theological Seminary, School of Psychology