About

About Kari O’Neill

Dr. Kari O’Neill, DSW, LICSW, has a Doctorate of Social Work and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Washington State.

Kari has experience working with a wide spectrum of patients. Among her areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, life transitions, new healthcare diagnosis, chronic health conditions, disability, intellectual and developmental disabilities, grief and loss, end of life support, family dynamics, parent/child relationships, and marital counseling. Prior to her employment at Swedish Medical Center as a clinical social worker, Kari worked in many social service settings including a rape treatment center, a health care clinic, and as a workshop facilitator for the Sibling Support Project at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Additionally, Kari completed her clinical trainings at the Seattle City Attorney’s Office as a child abuse advocate and served as an outpatient therapist at Swedish Family Medicine.

Kari is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help patients effectively address personal life challenges. She integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each patient. With compassion and understanding, she works with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.

Education

Kari has a Doctorate in Social Work from Tulane University. Kari also has a Masters degree in Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, both from the University of Washington.

License, Certifications & Awards

Kari is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the State of Washington (LW60313502) and an approved licensed supervisor in the state of Washington.

Additional Training

Kari has received additional training on anxiety, grief and loss, palliative care, challenging childhood behaviors, intellectual and developmental disabilities, geriatric mental health, and LGBTQIA+ issues.

Professional Activities and Memberships

Kari serves as an affiliated medical staff provider for Swedish Medical Center Issaquah. She is a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Kari also writes a blog called Ask Kari.” 

office staff

Mandy Evans

OFFICE MANAGER

Voted an Issaquah Highlands Connections Newspaper fan favorite.

Ask Kari: What should I do when my married colleague flirts with other women?

Ask Kari: What should I do when my married colleague flirts with other women?

My colleague at work is also a family friend of my wife and I. He flirts with wait staff when we go out to eat at lunchtime or to business dinners. I like both him and his wife, but it is becoming increasing uncomfortable when he tries to pick up women to date on the side.  I have tried to not show interest in this activity, hoping he will stop doing it, but he hasn’t.  What do you recommend I do in this situation?

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Ask Kari: My mother died this year — when will my grief get better?

Ask Kari: My mother died this year — when will my grief get better?

My mother died this past year and my grief is immense. I loved her very much; she was my best friend and confidant. I feel like only my siblings understand my loss. My friends try to help support me, but I can tell that I bore them whenever I begin talking about missing my mother. My husband also tries to console me, but it is just is not enough. When will it get better? How can I make it through my first holiday season without her?

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Ask Kari: How can I convince my daughter to not move in with her boyfriend?

Ask Kari: How can I convince my daughter to not move in with her boyfriend?

My daughter has just graduated from college and is trying to figure what to do next with her relationship with her boyfriend. They have been dating for 5 years (since high school), most of which has been an up and down relationship for them. My daughter tells me that she is considering moving in with her boyfriend, but neither of them have jobs or a place to live. What can I say to help guide her into making good choices in her life vs. staying in a relationship that is easy for now, but may not work out well for her in the long run?

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“Kari’s support, experience, and expertise helped me directly to deal with a huge family problem. The jury isn’t in yet as far as the results of my actions, but at least I know I did the right thing for my family member. I am so grateful!”

–Patient