Kirsten Nelson became a founding member of Chicago's Roadworks Theatre Ensemble before officially pursuing a career in Hollywood as an actress. She made her debut in the 1993 movie The Fugitive, which led to more opportunities to appear on the small screen. Some of her TV credits include The Untouchables, The Practice, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Thanks, and The O'Keefes, where she played Ellie O'Keefe. At present, she stars as Karen Vick on the USA Network series Psych.
Nelson, who attended Northwestern University, also graced the big screen through minor roles in films like War of the Worlds, Baby's Day Out and Larceny.