KARA SCHAMELL
Marriage & Family Therapist Trainee, Midwife
 

I've worn many hats over the years –– midwife, doula, teacher, advocate. For over fifteen years, I've guided hundreds of people through challenges and across thresholds, namely the journey of pregnancy and birth, the postpartum transition, the rocky terrain of peri-menopause, and the early parenting years. 

I've now transitioned to a career in mental health counseling. As a Marriage & Family Therapist (MFT) Trainee, I am offering online psychotherapy through the Liberation Institute, a grassroots community mental health agency that offers affordable teletherapy to clients across California. The Liberation Institute is co-created by counselors, psychotherapists, mindfulness teachers, artists and activists from the communities we serve. We aim to fill gaps in the availability of easily accessible, professional support for issues related to mental & emotional well-being. As a trainee, I am supervised by Miles Ruttinger, LMFT #133402. I am in my second year of a master's program in counseling psychology.

Building on my years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, and young children, I offer 1:1, couples, and group therapy. My therapeutic style weaves together a variety of modalities and techniques, and is ultimately tailored to each client. Wherever you are at, whatever brings you to therapy, I create an inclusive, safe space for your inward journey to unfold. 

If you're interested in working together, reach out to Liberation Institute. 


Areas of interest / specialization:
Perinatal counseling
Queer & trans affirming therapy
Relationship challenges
Life transitions
Self-exploration
Burnout
Support for helping professionals
Depression, anxiety, mood regulation
Processing past experiences
Finding meaning & purpose