Hi Kara! Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
I grew up in Wayne, NJ but my parents are Bergen County natives (shout out to Glen Rock and Ridgewood!) I have lived in Bergen County since I got married over 5 years ago in Mahwah. I am now on my way to Ramsey and knew I wanted to raise my family here for so many reasons, from the schools and services available, to the beautiful communities and main streets. Bergen County has something for everyone and is a melting pot in many ways, and I love that.
How old are your kids?
Right now I have a son (Evan) who is 4 years-old – he is a ball of energy and keeps me on my toes, and also really helps me laugh and try to not take things too seriously.
What is your favorite thing to do with him?
We love exploring local playgrounds, coffee shops, diners and hikes – anything where we can move our bodies, release energy or try a sweet treat is very up our alley! I am personally a huge coffee addict, so my favorite local spots are Pour City Roasters in Franklin Lakes, Humphrey’s in Haworth, and I appreciate a good diner breakfast at State Line 🙂
Are you involved in a business venture? Please share!
I founded A Work of Heart Counseling & Wellness in 2019, and what started as a very part-time venture for me after school (I was a case manager on a child study team at the time) took off to a group practice of 15 therapists with a variety of specialties! We now have 2 locations and I never in a million years thought that would happen! It’s only been 6 years and I am always astounded by the impact we have had and am so excited to see what we will continue to do for years to come. I am very proud that in that short time we have been named NJ Kids Top Docs year after year, NJBiz Named us 2024 Healthcare Heroes as well as 2025’s People to Watch in Healthcare, and we were a (201) Magazine Best of Bergen Finalist.
Why is this so important?
A Work of Heart is more than just a therapy practice—it’s a community. We provide specialized, compassionate care for parents, children, and families, while also creating spaces where people feel supported, included, and celebrated. A lot of practices are amazing, there’s many to choose from in Bergen, but with us you get specialized care from two teams (women/perinatal and pediatric focused), and, are you a postpartum mom and want to get out of the house for therapy or find community, but no childcare? Bring the baby! We welcome that. Are you struggling to find therapy for your anxious kiddo and the idea of trusting a provider scares you? WE GET IT, and will meet you right where you are. For me as a working mom, this business has been life-changing: it gives me the flexibility I need for my own family while also allowing me to give back in meaningful ways through community programs, pro bono and low-fee therapy, and philanthropic work. We have special initiatives allowing us to offer low-fee therapy to families who experience infant loss or stillbirth, because we never feel a family should worry about accessing therapy when they lose a child. Every day I get to do what I love, make a real impact, and change lives—both inside the therapy room and out in the community—and honestly, what could be better?
What sets you apart?
I like to think what sets me and A Work of Heart apart is the unique blend of deep clinical expertise and lived experience as a mom, paired with a true “village” approach to care. We don’t just provide therapy—we create community through groups, events, and collaborations that foster belonging and reduce stigma. Our commitment to access and equity means we try so hard to make it work to take care of you or your child, and if we aren’t a fit we still call or email EVERYONE back – because we know just how hard it is to make that call or email happen. We pride ourselves in strong relationships and networks which means if someone needs support we link them to a provider we know and trust, even if it’s not us. We just want people to get better and value authenticity, and are a brand that educates, advocates, and inspires; our leadership extends into statewide initiatives and advocacy for moms and kids, and we are really proud of that. From roles with Postpartum Support International, to giving to local nonprofits, A Work of Heart is more than a practice—it’s a movement that wants to change families’ lives.
If you could give one tip to fellow moms, what would it be?
Trust yourself more – doubt is a big enemy of mothers, stoked by society’s unrealistic expectations and comparison. The reality is, every mom I see is doing way better than she is giving herself credit for (something I love to help her see!) and when she can break through the self-doubt or criticism, she gets to see all she is capable of and that is empowering stuff. Trusting yourself looks like taking a pause and going with your gut more often, speaking to yourself the way you would want your children to speak to themselves, and simply being gentle with yourself.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I am an identical twin and my sister works for me! A lot of people find it so funny that I am in business with my sister and that we happened to go into the same field – but it’s no coincidence! We grew up helping others and supporting a younger sister with multiple disabilities – being helpers is in our DNA.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
These networks have amplified our voice, connected us with families in need, and reminded us that moms supporting moms is what makes real change possible. Their trust and referrals have helped us reach parents who might not otherwise know where to turn, while their engagement in our events, workshops, and community programs has fueled our mission to create a true “village.” On a personal level, being part of such a supportive mom community has shown me the power of connection, collaboration, and shared experience—it’s proof that when women and mothers lift each other up, entire families and communities thrive.
To learn more about A Work of Heart Counseling & Wellness, visit their website and follow them on Instagram.