Cara J. Williams, MSW, LISW-S - upper arlington
she/her
Cara J. Williams is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with Supervision Designation (LISW-S) who brings over 20 years of experience in healthcare and behavioral health to her clinical practice. She uses a person-centered and strength-based approach to support women through life’s many stages and transitions.
Cara is passionate about helping clients find clarity, balance, and renewed confidence as they navigate challenges such as anxiety, life changes, caregiving, grief, or chronic illness. She connects with adolescents, emerging adults, women in midlife, and older adults with deep respect for the milestones and stressors unique to each life stage. Drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems perspectives, Cara helps clients gain insight, develop new coping strategies, and create meaningful change in their daily lives.
Cara earned both her Bachelor’s (BS) and Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) degrees from The Ohio State University. During her graduate training, she completed the LEND fellowship at the Nisonger Center, focusing on interdisciplinary care for people with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Before joining Columbus Women’s Wellness, Cara served as a Senior Clinical Consultant with OhioHealth, where she provided counseling, care coordination, and linkage to community resources. She was also part of the geriatric assessment team at the Gerlach Center for Senior Health.
Earlier in her career, Cara worked at The Ohio State University James Cancer Hospital to support patients and families dealing with chronic illness. She also worked at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, where she provided trauma-focused individual, family, and group counseling. Across her professional roles, she has served as a field instructor and clinical supervisor for several social work students and has led program development, staff education, and diversity and inclusion initiatives within healthcare settings.
Cara’s broad clinical background and warm, practical style make her a trusted partner in helping women strengthen resilience and live with greater peace and purpose.
Clinical Interests/Focus: Women’s and Adolescent Girls’ Behavioral Health, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Chronic Illness, Aging/Life Transitions, Parenting Stress, Grief/Loss, Trauma, Relationship Concerns, Self-Esteem, Burnout, Career Counseling