Karina trained as a mental health nurse, completed a course in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and then worked in various clinical NHS positions. She completed a BA, MSc and PhD part time and in 1998 moved from London to Manchester and commenced work at the University of Manchester as a lecturer. She is past president of the BABCP, fellow of EANs and a patron of the National Phobic Society. Karina is currently Director of Research and Professor of Mental Health at the University of Manchester School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work.