Karsten Peterson is a mental health therapist at La Clinica’s school-based health center at Scenic Middle School. She previously served as a mental health therapist intern at Scenic’s school-based health center as well as a mental health therapist intern at Children’s Advocacy Center of Jackson County, before being hired at La Clinica in 2018.
Karsten was executive director, board member, and mentor for The Rose Circle Mentoring Network, now Rogue Valley Mentoring, and currently sits on their advisory council. Karsten serves on the board of the Oregon chapter of the National Association for Social Workers and is on the legislative committee. She earned her bachelor’s degree in international studies and political science at Southern Oregon University and her master’s degree in social work with specialization in school social work and integrative behavioral health through Portland State University. Karsten is a licensed school social worker.
She was born in Wenatchee, Washington, and now lives in the Rogue Valley with her husband and two sons. Karsten spends time with her family in nature camping, hiking, surfing, and skiing.
A certified social worker associate, she is in the process of getting credentials as a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed school social worker. Drawn to La Clinica’s culture of promoting wellness, she is proud to be part of a team where she can help youth and families identify their personal resources for healing and building resilience.