Today we’d like to introduce you to Linda Karcher.
Hi Linda, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always been fascinated by human behavior and have felt a deep desire to help others. My father encouraged me to pursue nursing—a profession I hold in high regard—but I quickly realized it wasn’t for me. The mere thought of blood made me queasy, and hospitals were not where I saw myself. Instead, I followed my passion for understanding and supporting people through challenges and earned a Master’s in Social Work (Advanced Standing, two-year program) from Michigan State University in 1988.
Though I loved Michigan, I grew weary of the endless winters and lake-effect snow. In 2002, I decided to stop complaining and make a change. I packed up and moved to North Carolina, where the Carolina blue skies and beautiful seasons immediately captured my heart.
My career began in community mental health, working with adults, followed by residential treatment with adolescents. I later transitioned to working with children as a clinical social worker in the education system while maintaining a part-time private practice.
In North Carolina, I found new and meaningful opportunities. I returned to education and developed a Transition Program for youth re-entering school after long-term hospitalization or incarceration. It was deeply rewarding to support these adolescents as they reintegrated into the community and found success with the right resources in place.
For many years, I served as a Student Assistance Program Specialist, partnering with parents and students facing mental health and substance use challenges. Our goal was to keep students engaged in school and help them graduate. When budget cuts threatened my position, I was deeply touched by the letters parents and students wrote to the district and the board of education advocating for me and the program. Despite their efforts, the role was reduced to part-time, and I took on the additional responsibilities of a 504 Facilitator. While I knew my work was still valuable in supporting students with disabilities, the heavy administrative demands left little time for direct practice. I began to feel more like a paper pusher than a clinician—and I missed the direct human connection that had drawn me to this field in the first place.
The unexpected upside of the COVID-19 pandemic was the opportunity to work virtually, which reignited my passion for direct client work. This led me to add a part-time private practice once again. When I realized how much joy this brought me, I took a leap of faith and transitioned to full-time private practice. After decades in salaried positions, stepping out on my own was both terrifying and liberating. With my partner Dave’s unwavering support, I embraced the challenge—and it turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made.
Today, I do what I love every day. I report to myself—and I adore my boss! My time is no longer consumed by endless meetings; it’s devoted to my clients and their growth. This final chapter of my career has been the most rewarding yet. I am once again doing what I set out to do from the beginning: helping people heal, reach their goals, and thrive—not just survive.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I’m fortunate to say that my journey has been relatively smooth. The biggest challenge I’ve faced was navigating the world of taxes after deciding to form an S-Corporation. I had no idea what I was getting into at the time and admittedly had a few meltdowns along the way as I learned what was required. While I absolutely love working with my clients, the business side of things—though minimal—was an unexpected hurdle. Fortunately, it’s one I’ve faced head-on and successfully conquered.
Another significant challenge came when my parents grew older and needed more support. My brother, who lives just a few miles away, was a godsend and took wonderful care of them, but I wanted to do my part to help him and be there for them as well. I made many trips back to Michigan to spend time with my parents. After my mother passed, I visited even more often, as my father grew increasingly lonely despite my brother and his family’s efforts. I was fortunate to be able to continue working during much of that time, allowing me to support my clients while also cherishing those precious moments with my family. I feel deeply grateful to have had that time with both of my parents before they passed.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’ve been able to truly hone my skills by participating in trainings and continuing education that are both relevant and inspiring. In my work, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions and have also received training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I enjoy taking an eclectic approach tailored to each client’s needs and interests, often incorporating mind-body techniques to support healing and growth.
One of the most rewarding additions to my practice has been integrating Animal-Assisted Interventions. Lotus, our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, serves as my very special office assistant. When appropriate, she joins sessions both in person and—believe it or not—virtually. These interventions offer a wide range of benefits, from breaking the ice and helping to establish rapport to reducing resistance and promoting relaxation. Petting an animal can release hormones that lower stress and anxiety while improving mood. Lotus seems to intuitively sense when a client needs her comfort and presence. Animal-Assisted Interventions also help with mental stimulation, enhancing social skills and confidence, and fostering greater self-awareness around behavior patterns, thoughts, and emotions. She brings joy not only to my clients but to me as well.
I love starting my mornings with coffee on my chaise, Lotus by my side, before telling her it’s time to “go to work” as we walk down the hall to my office. Working for myself has also allowed me to prioritize self-care—something that was much harder in my previous roles. I used to wake up early to commute, rush through lunch (if I took one at all), and come home exhausted. Now, I can enjoy long walks during lunch or hop on the Peloton for a midday recharge. I also have time for more social connections having lunches or walks with friends! I even made an executive decision to work Tuesdays through Fridays—and more recently, Tuesdays through Thursdays—because I can. I often smile remembering my dad’s words: “Well, you’re the boss!”
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I’m generally not a risk taker, so the biggest leap I’ve ever taken was leaving a full-time salaried position to work for myself. There are no guarantees in private practice, and when a client reaches their goals and moves on, though very rewarding, it can bring a moment of anxiety about keeping my caseload full. I’ve learned to remind myself that this work is naturally cyclical—some periods are busier than others—and that’s okay. So far, I’ve had no trouble maintaining a productive and fulfilling caseload. I’m fully aware that staying in one’s comfort zone feels safe, but it can also be limiting. I’ll forever be grateful that I took that leap of faith.
Pricing:
- $160 hour for private pay sessions
Contact Info:
