Kara Fletcher

Kara Fletcher is an Associate Professor at the University of Regina's Faculty of Social Work, Saskatoon Campus. She is also a practicing, AAMFT certified individual, couple and family therapist with expertise in relationship dynamics, mental health, and substance use issues.

Dr. Fletcher earned her PhD in Social Work from McGill University in 2017. Her academic journey has focused on understanding the complex interplay between relational dynamics and various psychological and social challenges.

Her research primarily explores couple and family therapy, mental health, substance use and misuse, trauma, and medical assistance in dying. She investigates how social issues like conspiracy theories, misinformation, hustle culture, and capitalism impact relational well-being. Her work bridges clinical practice with academic research to develop more effective therapeutic approaches.

Dr. Fletcher's publication record spans from 2012-2025, with recent work focusing on the impact of conspiracy theories and misinformation on relationships, critical analysis of 'dry month' alcohol abstinence campaigns, and the importance of language in discussing substance use. Her research demonstrates a consistent focus on how societal factors influence individual and relational mental health.

Dr. Fletcher is an active member of the Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers and has received funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation for her research.

As both a researcher and practicing therapist, Dr. Fletcher provides valuable insights into relationship dynamics during challenging times, including the pandemic and the current infodemic environment. Her work emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, compassionate communication, and understanding the systemic factors that influence individual behavior.