Dr. Karen Yanez

I’m Dr. Karen Yanez, a licensed psychologist based in San Antonio, Texas offering safe-but-real therapy for late teens and young adults (16-30). I value real, human connection and believe therapy should feel supportive without being forced or stiff. I love helping clients figure out who they are, what matters to them, and how to navigate life’s messy moments.

My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and tailored to you. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you recognize and challenge unhelpful thought patterns, along with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to support you in taking practical, values-driven steps that build confidence

I also draw from psychodynamic therapy to explore deeper patterns, including early experiences, relationship dynamics, and underlying beliefs that may be shaping how you see yourself and connect with others. Understanding the “why” behind your patterns can lead to meaningful, lasting change.

Therapy with me is not about “fixing” you. It’s about building self-understanding, developing tools that actually help, and supporting you in feeling more grounded, confident, and aligned with who you want to be.

You can expect me to show up fully present, engaged, and genuinely invested in you. I listen closely, ask thoughtful questions, and gently challenge you when it's helpful. I celebrate your wins, sit with you in the hard moments, and help you make sense of patterns that might be keeping you from living the life you want.