Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Faith Gordon.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Interacting with older adults has always been a source of inspiration and comfort for me. As a graduate student at the University of Michigan, I earned a Specialist in Aging Certificate as part of my Master of Social Work degree. I began my career as a social worker in HUD housing, which was an invaluable experience and taught me much about the world of non-profit work. Once my four children were all in school, I re-entered the workforce as a Care Manager for a private firm. Working as an advocate for patients and families provided me with diverse challenges as I helped them navigate myriad issues of aging: coping with a diagnosis, caregiver stress, constructive communication, transitions of aging, end-of-life, grief and loss. During the pandemic, I started my own private mental health counseling practice, where I am able to combine my skills and knowledge with my passion for helping people. It’s been five years of learning, growth, and always gratitude.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As a brand new ‘solopreneur’, my journey could be described as “building the plane as I fly it.” While this was not a strategy I consciously chose, I’ve learned this can be a common path for entrepreneurs. What has had the greatest impact on my resilience is choosing to see struggles as opportunities. Through this lens, a challenge becomes a window to take in information and make new choices to achieve an outcome. As importantly, I maintain openness and receptivity to outcomes looking different than what I intended, always trusting the process. Being an observer to my own journey allows a neutral perspective, reducing chaos and increasing calm. Most of the challenges I’ve faced have had to do with learning the systems that support being in private practice as a therapist. My greatest asset is having a Practice Manager who supports all of the administrative tasks necessary to run a successful business.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I am a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in aging. My scope of practice focuses on issues individuals face as they, or their loved ones, age. People often seek my guidance to cope with a new diagnosis, caregiver stress, transitions related to aging, communication among family members, end-of-life, and grief & loss. The two most prominent diagnoses I see are dementia and Parkinson’s. Many of my clients are part of the ‘sandwich generation’ in which they are caring for their aging parents while raising their own families. I am known for my expertise in the arena of aging, my capacity for helping people cope and communicate effectively, and my extensive connection to resources that support people in achieving their optimal quality of life. The practice of yoga and mindfulness are important aspects of my personal life and I take great pride in being able to incorporate elements of these practices into my work with clients. In addition to my counseling work with clients, I offer consultations to help people build a roadmap for the future; this often begins with establishing alignment among family members’ goals and objectives. I facilitate support groups where individuals can find education, support, and camaraderie with others. I am most proud of the wisdom I’ve attained to be able to help people find ease on their journey.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
To be open, receptive, and creative.
Pricing:
- Medicare accepted (insurance covered)
- Consultations are private pay (out-of-pocket)
- Support groups are private pay (out-of-pocket)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://karenfaith.llc/
- Instagram: Karen Faith, LLC
- Facebook: Karen Faith, LLC
- LinkedIn: Karen Faith, LLC
