About me

My Story

I understand career transitions. I first joined the world of work as an English/English Language Learner teacher, but by my late twenties, I felt the need to heed my longstanding creative yearnings. I enrolled at Emerson College, studied film and fell in love with documentary work. I thought, “I’ve found it! I will do this the rest of my life!” Fast-forward to five years later “in the biz” and I’m attending a lecture by Fred Wiseman, a documentarian of “Titticut Follies” and “High School” fame. He said something to the effect of 75% of your time is spent fundraising. I knew this from experience but hearing it from a master and really absorbing it as my future was a game changer. I sadly left the lecture and my documentary career that night. I transitioned back to teaching, studied for another Master’s degree, and years later transitioned into a career of life and career coaching. I know both sides of change: the heartache, self-doubt and tough decision-making and the excitement of new adventures. I recently circled back to the film world by writing a screenplay and am currently working on a play. Any producers out there?

On a personal note, as you can see from the above photo, I love spending time with my lab pal, Sally. I have a teenage son who simultaneously keeps me young and gives me gray hair. My husband is a retired teacher and an artist. What makes me feel most alive? Dancing, singing, writing, reading and spending time in the hills of Vermont. What engages and energizes you?

Credentials

A Global Career Development Facilitator certified through the National Career Development Association, I also received training as a Life Coach through the Institute for Life Coach Training. I have a Master’s degree in Communication from Emerson College in Boston, and a Master’s in Teaching from The School for International Training in Brattleboro, Vermont.

Experience

I have worked with a broad range of career and life counseling clients in private practice, my former employment at Harvard, and my current work at the Securities and Exchange Commission. I have success stories from managers, lawyers, international clients, educators, IT professionals, administrative assistants, accountants, event coordinators, artists, etc. It doesn’t matter what your position or profession is when you come for career coaching. It is the courage to grapple with life, strategize, and take steps that is the key to meaning, success, and joy.

“I’ve met with Karen once, worked with her over the phone to edit a resume and cover letter, and have called her to talk me through an overwhelming time-sensitive career decision crisis!! I am SO GLAD she was available when I called out of the blue. Having someone who has become familiar with your experience, strengths, and goals is an asset to have during a career transition. Overall, I have had a great experience with Karen and I am so glad I took the chance and reached out for this type of support.”

Adrienne S., Student Services, Higher Ed.

Professional Organizations/Awards

  • Northeast Career Counselors’ Consortium
  • National Career Development Association
  • Member of the Arlington, MA Chamber of Commerce
  • 2 City of Boston Recognition Awards: Volunteer work at the New England Home for Little Wanderers, and Producer of documentary, City Roots, An Alternative to Dropping Out

Articles

Find my Career articles at http://www.wickedlocal.com/arlington

I interviewed Arlington residents from a variety of fields to help readers understand the challenges and rewards involved in this particular job and career path.