Woodland Hills Counseling
Woodland Hills Counseling
  • Welcome
  • Specialties
    • Individual Counseling
    • Couples (Marriage and Intimate Partner) Counseling
    • Family Counseling
    • Groups
  • Telehealth
  • About Me
  • Contact/Information
    • Contact
    • Payment, Fees and Forms
  • FAQs
  • Blog
  • Welcome
  • Specialties
    • Individual Counseling
    • Couples (Marriage and Intimate Partner) Counseling
    • Family Counseling
    • Groups
  • Telehealth
  • About Me
  • Contact/Information
    • Contact
    • Payment, Fees and Forms
  • FAQs
  • Blog

Carine Keenan
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #80427

Carine Keenan - My Philosophy of Change

"...and the day came when the risk to remain in a tight bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom."  Anais
This quote defines my philosophy of counseling and therapy.  People who come to therapy just want to feel better.  Counseling provides an outlet ot be heard; therapy, however, generally requires something to change. Change, however,  is not easy.  However, when old, familiar habits fail and get in the way of fulfillment, change begins to look more inviting and less scary.   This is the point where true healing can begin because the pain of change is less than staying the same.  I provide counseling and therapy to individuals ages 6 and up, couples, and families.  

So how do I work as a therapist?  I have a natural curiosity which guides me to know the strengths and areas of improvement (based on what you tell me) of each client.  My very first step is to develop the mutual trust and understanding essential healthy and functional relationships.  From here,  we will collaborate on your list of goals. What happens next depends on your goals and your commitment to therapy.  You will acquire insight and awareness,  gain empowerment, and then make and maintain changes for a more fulfilling life and enhanced relationships. I will also help you understand what cannot be fixed and give you tools to cope with that.   The length of time in therapy depends on your presenting issue, your goals, your situation, your commitment, and your practice of what you learn in therapy.  Here is what you can expect from me as a therapist: ​
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carine@woodlandhillscounseling.net
Connection.  I know that beginning therapy is hard for many people, so I work hard to build rapport and earn your trust from our very first meeting.  I will actively listen to your needs as you see them and give you an honest assessment as to how I can be most helpful. 

Curiosity.  I will be curious about your situation and the impact on your life in order to know you better.  The better I know you, the better I can help you reach your goals.  

Knowledge.  I stay on top of current research and training so that I am knowledgeable and helpful in our work together.  In addition to my license,  I am certified in Anger Management, Collaborative Coaching for Divorce, Family Based Therapy for Eating Disorders, Parenting, and Trauma.  Because no two people are the same, I utilize a variety of tools, strategies, and interventions based on knowing you and your therapeutic goals.

Safety.  Your emotions are important -- accordingly I will provide you the therapeutic safety to feel all your feelings and express them.   I work with your emotions to help you identify them,  understand them, deal with them,  regulate them, and appropriately express them.  

Understanding.  Everyone has their own rate of growth and readiness to make change, even when they are motivated.  With an eye to your goals,  I am here for support even when it's hard to make the positive, useful changes that will improve your well being. 

Encouragement.  Through our relationship, I will know when you have stepped out of your comfort zone for growth and I will celebrate your therapeutic accomplishments with you.  Every baby step is a win which will strengthen your motivation toward bigger steps and future goals. 

Education, Certification, and Training
  • M.S. in Counseling Psychology, California Lutheran University
  • CSUN Suicide Hotline
  • Valley Trauma Center (aka Strength United)
  • CLU Intimate Partner Violence Program - California Lutheran University
  • Certified Coach for Collaborative Divorce - Loyola Center for Conflict Resolution
  • Certified Positive Discipline Educator
  • Certified Early Child Development and Counseling - Los Angeles Institute and Society of Psychoanalytic Studies
  • Family Based Treatment for Eating Disorders - Stanford University
  • Certified Anger Management Specialist II - National Anger Management Association

Organizations and Affiliations
  • CSUN - Adjunct Faculty, Graduate School of Educational Psychology and Counseling
  • CA Association of Anger Management Professionals
  • Psi Chi Honors Fraternity
  • LACFLA
  • AAMFT Designated Supervisor in Training
  • CAMFT San Fernando Valley Chapter
  • American Association of MFTs
  • California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
  • National Anger Management Association
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Woodland Hills Counseling

(818) 912-9189

therapy@carinekeenanmft.com