Karen was born in Dallas, Texas. She attended Texas A&M University where she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in biology, which led to the University of Texas, Houston where she earned her medical degree. She then completed a family medicine residency in 2000 at Memorial Hermann Medical Center in Houston, and was chosen to lead the program for a year as Chief Resident at the completion of her training. 

She then moved to Denver where she lived and worked for 23 years as a family physician and occupational medicine specialist. Then in June 2023, Karen relocated to Naples, her new forever home, to work with Harper Health. She enjoys working out, beach combing, playing the harp and dining out in Naples.

She has staff privileges at Naples Community Hospital and Physicians Regional Hospital System. Dr. Karen has held a board certification from the American Board of Family Medicine since 1996.