February 17, 2025
Meet Kara Bednar, LPC (she/her), one of our team of Behavioral Health Consultants at the Partnership Comprehensive Care Practice.
Kara always says she has the best job at the Partnership and she means it! She provides behavioral health care with the primary goal of making sure that patients’ and doctors’ goals are aligned. In her role, Kara helps break down big goals like medication adherence, smoking cessation, lowering blood pressure, stress management and lifestyle changes into small achievable goals. She provides therapeutic support like coping skills and support around life stressors like anxiety, depression, and grief. Additionally, Kara helps connect patients with long term supports like therapists, psychiatrists and groups.
What drew you to health care, and how did you get started?
I became interested in mental health care while in undergrad and found I liked working with people instead of in front of them (I was studying acting). I returned to school for counseling and found joy working with a diverse group of adults at Northeast Treatment Center. I had the opportunity to start integrating more with healthcare providers while working as a therapist at a methadone clinic. I was drawn to the BHC role because I love the emphasis placed on the interconnection between mental and physical health. I love working as part of a team to support someone's wellbeing.
What is your favorite hobby, activity, or creative outlet?
My primary activity outside of work is parenting my two children (ages six and two). As a family we love exploring playgrounds, playing board games, baking, and dancing. When I have time for myself, I like to work in my yard.
What is your favorite memory of working here?
It's really a collection of moments - when patients let us into their lives outside of health care. When someone shares their hobbies, pets, or pictures of their children, I feel so connected with them! I've gotten to celebrate the arrival of a grandchild, admire handmade jewelry, and mourn the death of a pet with patients. Getting to share those moments is a privilege I would not have anywhere else.
What’s something surprising that not many people know about you?
My first job was performing with the Radio Disney Road Crew - so I've gotten paid to do the “Cha Cha Slide” and “Cupid Shuffle!”