Karen Walker

Director of Clinical Services

My role is to provide the clinical oversight and supervision that motivates and promotes success amongst our team through open communication, collaboration and therapeutic excellence. In this way, we are free to serve individuals, couples, families, churches, and organizations in a professional, therapeutic setting where the whole person is empowered and affirmed. 

Growing up as a First Generation Canadian

My family immigrated to Canada from Ireland when I was three years old. As a child of immigrant parents, I witnessed firsthand the blessings and hardships of adjusting to a new country – financially, culturally and relationally. My family’s faith and Christian community was our anchor during times of stress and trials.

Beginning a new life involves tremendous sacrifice and perseverance. I have often likened this to the therapeutic journey and the faith and endurance we require to pursue healing and a new, healthier way of life.

My Professional Journey  

Even as a child, I was drawn to people’s emotions. The instinct to listen, support and understand has always been a part of my person.

As a young adult, I completed an undergrad of psychology at Redeemer University and then a Masters of Social Work at Wilfred Laurier University. I have spent much of my career working in child protection, predominantly in leadership roles as a supervisor in child protection and clinical treatment service. 

I’ve learned that healing rarely looks like what we expect. It’s messy, nonlinear and means choosing to face what’s been avoided, buried or even silenced for years.  I am constantly inspired by the courage and determination I see in my clients to keep moving forward in their healing.

As a therapist, I’ve come to understand that I can only take people as far as I’ve been willing to go myself, and I am grateful for the lessons I’ve lived that led me here. 

My Role as Clinical Director

From the beginning of my career, my faith has always informed my “why” – my reason for engaging in the work and believing that change and healing are possible. Yet I also held a confidence that one day I would work in an environment where my Christian beliefs and professional training would no longer be in tension but would enrich one another in practice and expression.

That is why coming to By Peaceful Waters was like coming home. It is here that I can offer my training and experience as a supervisor, administrator and clinician, while pursuing the wisdom and goodness of God’s transformational love with our staff and clients.