Cara Buenz, Independently Licensed Social Worker, Marriage and Family Institute

Cara Buenz

MSW, LISW-S

Independently Licensed Social Worker
Supervisory Designation

Do you feel stuck in patterns that no longer work—whether it’s anxiety that won’t quiet down, emotional overwhelm, or ongoing conflict in your relationships? Maybe you’re trying your best, but still feel like you’re not making progress. 

I specialize in working with couples who feel disconnected or caught in recurring conflict, as well as children, teens, and families navigating emotional and behavioral challenges. Whether you’re facing anxiety, mood changes, trauma, or relationship strain, I help you understand the patterns underneath what’s happening and develop practical tools for meaningful, lasting change. My goal is to help you feel more connected, supported, and confident in navigating everyday life.

Experience:
I am an Independently Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Boston College, where I specialized in Children, Youth, and Families. Since 2016, I have provided individual, group, and family therapy in both residential and inpatient hospital settings, supporting children, adolescents, and families navigating mood disorders, behavioral challenges, trauma, anxiety, and neurodivergence, including ADHD.

My work is grounded in helping couples move out of cycles of conflict, miscommunication, and disconnection. I utilize evidence-based approaches such as Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to strengthen communication, rebuild trust, and foster deeper emotional connection. My approach is integrative and tailored to each client’s needs. I also draw from evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and mindfulness-based strategies to support emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and skill-building

I have a particular passion for helping children and teens build emotional awareness and coping skills, supporting parents in navigating behavioral and relational challenges, and guiding couples who feel stuck in cycles of disconnection toward greater understanding and connection. My goal is to create a supportive, collaborative space where clients feel understood and empowered to grow.

As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, my areas of focus include:
Children I Teens And Adults With Anxiety I Mood And Behavioral Challenges I Couples Experiencing Communication Breakdown And Disconnection I Trauma And Trauma Recovery I Neurodivergence I Emotional Regulation I Family Conflict I Parenting Support


If you’re ready to get started, I always offer a 15-min consult to see if we are a good fit. I’d love to help you or a member of your family feel more confident, connected, and equipped to navigate life’s challenges.