About Karen Sheesley

Karen Sheesley founded Straighten Up in 2004 and has been helping people regain control over their possessions ever since.

She has earned the title of Chronic Disorganization Specialist through the National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization (now the ICD: Institute for Challenging Disorganization) and has studied numerous factors relating to disorganization, including aging, ADD, learning styles, safety, physical and medical challenges, grief, depression, family dynamics, and resources.

She has a natural affinity for people, simplicity and order. A lifetime of experiences in care giving, professional nursing, management and small business ownership have given her insight, assessment skills and a particular sensitivity to physical challenges that people may be facing.

Karen lives in Central NY with her husband and Bodi, the one eyed dog. When she is not helping people get organized you might find her working in her flower and vegetable gardens, taking long walks with Bodi, or baking yummy things.

Karen Sheesley and her dog Work With Karen Sheesley

Testimonials

"Karen has the remarkable ability to blend patience and compassion with prompt planning and execution. She quickly and accurately assessed a difficult 'senior re-location' situation, provided plenty of options and resources, and followed through on every detail."

- Phoenix, AZ

"You have given me back a chance at sanity. The chaos has been such a burden. My environment is not haunting me as before... life feels more manageable. Millions of thanks."

- Albuquerque, NM

"Karen brought 'fresh eyes' and a fresh perspective to our challenging room. She helped us chart out a plan for organizing and helped keep us on track. I really appreciated Karen's ability to assess our room and make recommendations. She kept us on task and was great about keeping in touch. She helped us set goals and deadlines. Without her help we would still be in a mess! Thank you Karen!"

- Edmeston, NY

"Karen is very personable and highly reliable."

- Oneonta, NY

"You have given me back a chance at sanity. The chaos has been such a burden. My environment is not haunting me as before…. Life feels more manageable."

- Albuquerque, NM

"Karen organized years of our complicated paperwork in an effective and professional manner. I have complete confidence in her skills and confidentiality."

- West Oneonta, NY

"You had a lot of good ideas and weren't afraid to "get your hands dirty” (or your nose full of dust!)… You went that extra mile to help me… you helped not only in de-cluttering my house and life but also make it more stress-free. I could never have done it alone."

- Oneonta, NY

"Karen maintained an incredible level of communication with me despite a time zone difference and my role as a third party in the situation. I am in awe over her unique combination of talent, expertise and delightful personality. Do yourself a favor and contact Karen ASAP! You will be overjoyed with her services."

- Phoenix, AZ

"Working with Karen was great. She was prompt, professional, a good listener and honest in her evaluation of our needs. She respected our ideas and was an excellent resource person."

- Oneonta, NY

"I felt I could do it myself. Three days from my deadline, I had to admit I desperately needed help. Karen was there immediately! She worked swiftly and carefully, organizing, and identifying, treasuring my treasures."

- Laurens, NY

"You were so very helpful to me, I don't see how I would have made it here without your help."

- Oneonta, NY

"Karen brings joy, grace and sensitivity to all she sets out to accomplish. I give you an unqualified recommendation for Straighten Up!"

- Strafford, NH

"Karen helped me to figure out what our room really needed. She brought 'new eyes' and a fresh perspective to our challenging room."

- Edmeston, NY

"I know I am motivated to make changes and so are others because of your encouragement."

- Women In Transition Group

"I want to thank you for a wonderful, enlightening, informational and well-organized program."

- Otego library Board

"You got me excited about organizing!"

- MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)

"Great information, encouragement, humor."

- Adult Ed class

"Good suggestions! Started me thinking!"

- Hartwick College, Oneonta, NY