Following "Blue Bloods", Carlson worked recurring roles on "The Society" and "The Village". She also shot films "Sunny Daze, The Incoherents, A Bread Factory Part One," and the indie horror film "Know Fear". Just prior to COVID-19 shutdowns, Carlson co-wrote, directed and starred in a short film, "The" "Letter", co-written by Syd Butler. She cast her friend from "Law and Order: Trial by Jury", Scott Cohen as her co-star. Her work was honored with best director and actor at the Hollywood International Women's Film Festival, as well as awards with the Cannes Indie Film Festival, Hudson Valley Film Festival and Dark Women Film Festival.