podcasts > Relationship / Dating | Seniors

The Mental Health Cost of Family Estrangement

July 15, 2026 Jul 15, 2026

Family estrangement is more common than many people realize, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and isolating experiences individuals and families can face. In this episode, we are joined by LifeStance therapist Kara Guevara and her patient Ken to explore the emotional impact of losing contact with a family member and the complex grief that often follows.

Together, they discuss the difference between a strained relationship and estrangement, common reasons families become disconnected, and why these experiences can leave people feeling unheard and alone. Ken shares his personal journey through estrangement and the challenges of coping with loss, while Kara offers clinical insight into acceptance, grief, boundaries, and finding meaningful support during difficult times.

Whether you’re navigating estrangement yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking a deeper understanding ofthis often-overlooked topic, this conversation offers compassion, perspective and hope.

July 15, 2026

with Kara Guevara, MSW, LCSW

MEET THE GUEST

Kara Guevara, MSW, LCSW

Kara Guevara is a Psychotherapist, who has been a practicing social worker since 2013 and psychotherapy since 2017. She received a Bachelor of Social Work from Concordia University and a Master of Clinical Social Work from UWM. As a Social Worker, Kara has experience working in Hospice, Child Protective Services, skilled nursing facilities and the Aging and Disability Resource Center. As a Psychotherapist, she has 5 years of experience working at Rogers Behavioral Health.

Kara believes in meeting clients where they are at, in a judgement free and accepting way. Her social work background provides clients with a unique problem-solving approach to meet individualized goals. Kara provides evidence-based treatment that includes exposure therapy, DBT and CBT, as well as Christian counseling upon client's request.

Kara specializes in working with adults and older adolescents with anxiety, depression, OCD, and personality disorder. She also works with individuals in a variety of contexts, including parenting issues, school avoidance, behavioral problems, divorce, death and dying, grief, homelessness, domestic violence, relationship problems, men's issues, and individuals going through civil, criminal and family court.

In her free time Kara enjoys spending time with her husband and son. She is also a Christian and believes that God is an important part of the healing process.

View Kara's Profile

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