Dr. Karen Katunich, PA Psychologist PS006207L

Dr. Karen Katunich is a licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania (PA Psychologist PS006207L) who brings more than 30 years of clinical experience to her practice. She has worked across public and private settings, including group private practice and a leadership role as Senior Clinician at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center's Mood Disorders Clinic. Her career has also included directing resident psychotherapy training at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, reflecting a long commitment to clinical education and mentorship.

Dr. Katunich earned her doctorate from Virginia Commonwealth University and completed her internship with the Pittsburgh Consortium-Veterans Affairs Medical Center. A former Air Force Officer, she began her teaching career at the U.S. Air Force Academy and later taught at both undergraduate and graduate levels at local colleges and universities. These experiences inform a practical, disciplined approach to care along with an appreciation for diverse life paths.

Specializing in mood disorders, Dr. Katunich provides psychological treatment for adults and seniors and addresses concerns such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma and abuse, addictions, relationship and family issues, and coping with life changes. Her orientation is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while evolving into an eclectic, client-centered practice that emphasizes being heard without judgment. She offers thoughtful, personalized care grounded in respect, empathy, and a focus on building resilience and clarity.

Approach-Focused Care Delivered Online

Dr. Katunich frequently uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which helps people identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety, depression, and mood challenges. This approach is practical and problem-focused, supporting clients to develop coping strategies and new ways of thinking.

She also incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy techniques, which concentrate on emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and improving interpersonal effectiveness. DBT skills can be particularly helpful for managing intense emotions, relationship struggles, and repeated patterns that cause instability.

Client-Centered Therapy is another key element of her work, emphasizing empathy, active listening, and collaboration so clients feel understood and respected. Together with the client, Dr. Katunich tailors an approach that aligns with individual goals, needs, and preferences rather than applying a one-size-fits-all method.

Online sessions with licensed professionals offer flexibility in how care is delivered. Video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging allow scheduling around work, family, or mobility constraints and make it easier to maintain continuity of care. This range of options helps people access consistent therapeutic support in ways that fit their daily lives.