Couples Therapy – It’s OK to Not Be OK: A Self-Care Series

Stylized figures standing back-to-back with text reading 'It’s OK to Not Be OK' as part of a self-care series

The year 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone. There has been tremendous burden on our mental health weighed by an excess of traumatic incidents impacting us, as individuals, as community members, as a nation, from COVID-19 pandemic, wild fires, hurricanes, social awakening, racial injustice, rising violence, to mounting death tolls. This is a lot of triggers for people.

Hence, it is important to invest and digest the importance of self-care. With everything going on, it is easy to forget the most important thing is our own mental health. In partnership with City of Chandler, our very own licensed marriage and family therapists, Suzanne Northey, LMFT & Rochelle Aguila, LMFT, hosted a discussion about successfully navigating relationships during challenging times. It includes how to deal with the new reality and struggles during this pandemic, coping strategies, communication skills and strategies specific to couples and relationships.

Watch the video by going to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcPhVCnHf9I&t=3s

If you are struggling with your mental health, please consider getting help sooner rather than later. We are here to help. To learn more about our services, please go to www.lighthousetms.com

Karen McIntosh, LCSW

Therapist See age 18+

CLINIC: Virtual

Compassionate. Experienced. Client-focused. Karen McIntosh brings over a decade of experience in the mental health field, helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges with empathy and expertise. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Karen specializes in working with clients experiencing anxiety and depression by utilizing a diverse range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), psychoanalysis and humanistic therapy.

Karen’s experience spans across various settings, from private practice to hospital environments, where she has provided tailored treatment plans, conducted comprehensive assessments, and supported clients dealing with anxiety, mood disorders, and life transitions. Her approach is rooted in understanding each client’s unique needs, empowering them to achieve their goals through evidence-based strategies and compassionate guidance.

Karen combines academic excellence with real-world experience to offer a safe, supportive, and results-driven therapeutic experience.  Whether you’re seeking support for personal growth, emotional challenges, or relationship dynamics, Karen is committed to walking alongside you on your journey to mental well-being.

While she calls both Georgia and Arizona her home, she enjoys exploring the world to take part in culture, language, community and most of all, food.  She spends her free time hiking, walking, reading, watching documentaries and even the occasional guilty pleasure reality show.

Take the first step towards a healthier you—connect with Karen today.

Tristan Echevarria, BS

Therapist-in-training

CLINIC: Gilbert

Fluent in English

Tristan is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Grand Canyon University. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Arizona State University and has an extensive background in mental health. Tristan has worked closely with innovative alternative treatments, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Transcranial Photobiomodulation (Red Light Therapy), to support individuals in their mental health journey. Tristan is passionate about helping clients navigate life’s challenges by providing a safe and supportive environment. He integrates evidence-based practices with individualized treatment plans, striving to empower clients to overcome obstacles and achieve personal growth.


In his spare time, Tristan enjoys watching sports such as football and baseball, exercising at the gym, playing video games, and spending time with family.