Hi, I’m Cara
I don’t think I could survive without deep talks, a good cup of tea, or playlists that make me feel something. My house is usually filled with the chaos of kids’ sports gear, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. When I’m not in the therapy room, you can find me coaching basketball, on the sidelines of a soccer game, or in the weight room. Strength training has become a version of therapy for me, a reminder that women can be both soft and strong.
I’m deeply passionate about coaching girls in sport and helping them learn to lead, take up space, and trust their own voice. I believe real growth happens when young athletes learn how to stay grounded under pressure. Supporting them as they build confidence, courage, and self-belief, both on and off the court, is one of my greatest joys in life.
As a mother raising two daughters, that mission runs through everything I do. I’m passionate about helping others live lives that are full and self-defined, and I bring that same energy into my work every day, guiding women and couples toward connection that feels emotionally rich and grounded in respect for self.
Why I do this work
At my core, I believe everyone deserves to live a life that feels whole and deeply fulfilling. I do this work because I’ve seen how often women carry the weight of everyone else’s needs while setting their own aside. I’ve also seen the power that unfolds in themselves and their relationships when they stop doing that.
My passion is helping others lead lives that feel both grounded and expansive. Lives where ambition and tenderness can coexist, where relationships feel nourishing instead of depleting, and where inner knowing becomes the foundation for everything else.
Who I Work Best With
If you’ve found your way here, chances are you’re showing up for everyone else, holding it all together, and wondering when it gets to feel easier. You don’t want surface level advice or a therapist who just nods and says “mmm-hmm” while you do all the heavy lifting. You want real conversation, real insight, and someone who can meet you where you are.
I work best with women and couples who are willing to look honestly at what’s happening and take ownership of their part in it.
You don’t need clarity, certainty, or the right words to begin. Most people start because something feels heavy and they don’t want to keep carrying it alone.
Therapy is an investment in yourself, your relationships, and the kind of life you want to build. My job isn’t to hand you a checklist; it’s to help you get clear, stay grounded, and start creating connection with yourself and others that feels safe, steady, and real.
If you’re ready for therapy that’s collaborative, active, and rooted in real connection, we’ll work well together.
We are likely not the best match if:
You’re seeking crisis-only or emergency support
You prefer a therapist who takes a purely passive or observational role
You’re looking for quick fix solutions rather than space for depth, reflection, and growth
If you are open to collaborative, intentional work that goes beyond surface-level coping, I would be glad to work with you.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 20+ years in the field. I have completed Level 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work. I am also a leader of The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work couples workshop. Before founding Novara Intimacy I was a couples counselor who also led large, multi-provider practices, recruiting, mentoring, and developing clinicians while building sustainable, high-quality systems of care.
For the Details-Driven
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Licensed Clinical Social Worker, State of Illinois
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Southern Illinois University Edwardsville - Specialization in Children and Families
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Social Work, Cum Laude, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
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The Gottman Method is one of the leading evidence-based approaches in the treatment of couples-backed by decades of research, with structured exercises that build closeness and teamwork.
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To join the next workshop or explore a private event schedule a complimentary 15-minute consult and we’ll tailor the details.
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A nod to my direct, coach-like style and belief that small adjustments change the whole game.
Credentials and Training
1 Book a call Use my online scheduler to find a time that fits your schedule. If you’re reaching out for couples therapy, either partner or both are welcome to join the call.
2 We’ll chat We'll have a FREE 15-minute chat to see if we're a good fit for each other.
3 Schedule your first session If we're a match, I’ll book your session and send you onboarding info.
I’m ready when you are
Schedule a complimentary 15 minute phone consultation