Karen Pérez Cruz,

MACP, BSc

Registered Provisional Psychologist

Hello, I’m Karen! I am a passionate and dedicated Mental Health Therapist who offers a culturally sensitive space for individuals and couples to receive evidence-based therapy for their relationship and sexual concerns.

I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to build a healthy sexual identity and self-esteem. Sexual wellness is a cornerstone of mental health and nurturing lasting relationships. It is my honour to support you on your journey toward sexual expression and fulfilling, shame-free relationships. Each person deserves a positive relationship with pleasure and their sexuality, regardless of their past relationships or traumatic experiences. Through a compassionate and gentle space, we can untangle these complexities together.

As a first-generation Latinx immigrant to Canada, I also deeply understand the unique challenges faced by fellow immigrants and marginalized individuals. I have personally navigated the complexities of adapting to a new language and way of life while striving to preserve my cultural identity. I am proud to speak both Spanish and English, and I am committed to helping diverse communities break down mental health and sexual stigma. I strive to respect and integrate your culture, values, and religious beliefs into our work together. 

Creating a nurturing space where you can embrace your authentic self brings me immense joy. With a person-centred philosophy, we will embark on a collaborative journey to explore the facets of your identity and the experiences that have shaped you. My approach blends various therapeutic techniques tailored to your personal goals and challenges. My heartfelt mission is to foster a safe and welcoming atmosphere where you feel genuinely validated and at ease.

I see my clients as the experts of their own lives, capable of overcoming challenges in their unique ways. We will co-create a compassionate space rooted in mutual respect, empathy, and non-judgment. You can expect a patient and gentle presence, empowering you to navigate therapy at your own pace. It takes strength to seek help for ourselves – congratulations on taking this important first step. I would be honoured to help you in this journey!

Available Virtually or In-Person

PROFESSIONAL DEGREES

Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology with Distinction - Yorkville University

Bachelor of Science in Psychology with Distinction- University of Alberta

PROFESSIONAL TRAINING & LICENSURE

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Basic Training

  • Advanced EMDR Training (Recent Event Protocol & G-TEP)

  • Integrative Sex and Couples Course

  • IFS Therapy Immersion

  • EFT for Attachment Trauma

  • Dialectical Behavioural Therapy Skills

  • Clinical Trauma Intensive Training

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

  • Suicide Assessment and Intervention

  • Sex Work is Work Bias Training

  • Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 1)

  • First Responder to Sexual Assault and Abuse

  • ASIST Training – Exp. April 2025

  • Indigenous Youth Suicide Prevention

  • Trauma-Informed Care Certificate

  • QPR: Suicide Prevention

  • Mental Health First Aid

  • Brain Story Certification

MEMBERSHIPS & REGISTRATION

  • College of Alberta Psychologists

  • American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT)

  • Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association

SPECIALIZATION

  • Sexual Trauma

  • Intimacy Concerns & Sexual Desire

  • Sexual Self-Esteem/Identity

  • Shame/guilt and/or anxiety around sex

  • Marriage Counselling & Relationship Issues

  • Painful Sex

  • Infidelity & Betrayal

  • LGBTQIA2S+ Relationships & Sexual Concerns

  • Sex Workers

  • Kink/Fetishes

  • Polyamory & Ethical Non-Monogamy

  • PTSD & Complex Trauma

  • Cultural Adjustment Concerns

 
 

APPROACHES IN THERAPY

  • Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)

  • Sex Therapy (Inc. Imago, Sensate-Focused)

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

  • Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)

  • Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)

  • Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)

  • Narrative Therapy

  • Mindfulness-based Approaches

Understanding ourselves and our intimate needs is important to our overall well-being.

 

My approach is culturally sensitive, anti-oppressive, and decolonized, ensuring that your unique background is respected and thoughtfully integrated into our work. Here, all identities, including LGBTQIA2S+ and polyamory are celebrated. As a sex-positive and anti-oppressive therapist, I champion a Health at Every Size framework.