Throughout her career Karen has worked in community arts, creatively building and developing projects, addressing the social emotional and mental health needs of children, young people and their families. Her work in 33 local authorities provided her with a good sense of social demographics, and the scope to have a greater understanding of traumas and suffering that can hinder learning, social development and affect the well-being and mental health of so many children and young people. Karen’s work with adults, families and organisations provides them with a safe and confidential space to share their worries, dilemmas and what is troubling them that is affecting relationships at home and work. She is also devoted to self-care, delivering ‘Be kind to yourself’ workshops and webinars. Her work as a clinical supervisor helps professionals manage and find a work/life balance and look at strategies to reduce stress and being/feeling burnout. As a clinician and artist Karen has combined her skills to develop and promote the need for therapeutic intervention, recognising that it has not only saved lives but can be life changing.