About
Karol Espejo
LCSW
Licensed in MD, NJ, NY
Bilingual in English and Spanish
I’m a licensed clinical social worker and help women of color become more comfortable in their own skin, free themselves of others’ expectations and experience what makes them happy.
My story
I’m a first generation Latina therapist, recovering perfectionist and an aspiring “good-enough-ist”. I’m originally from Peru, lived in MD most of my life and am now based in NJ where I work and reside with my family of four. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, learning, baking and spending time with people I love. I became a therapist after experiencing life-changing work early in my career, helping marginalized families access mental care and realizing that there’s a huge void of representation and care for this community. I shifted from macro-focused work to individual care. I knew becoming a therapist would ensure that the very people in my community have access to a positive, trusting relationship, receive appropriate support, and feel validated and seen.
My commitment to working with women of color is based on the belief that my work can make a difference in their lives. The complexity of the cultural dimension makes this work fulfilling. Many times women come in because they have a diagnosis of anxiety, depression or a trauma history and they’re looking to get symptoms “fixed” and that’s rarely all we focus on. I find that’s the tip of the iceberg.While improving symptoms is important, the work often involves getting to the core beliefs that limit them from feeling deserving of a more fulfilling life.
We explore intergenerational trauma, the role of systemic racism/oppression in their lived experience, learned patterns of thinking and behavior, and the role culture and race has played in their lives. The women I work with have a chance to undo the shame and guilt and see themselves in a new light for the first time.
Like you, I’m also continuously discovering myself on my own healing journey. I fall into the same traps many women do, but have discovered ways to accept all parts of myself, stop apologizing for being me, and foster life choices that bring more fulfillment and joy.
I look forward to hearing from you and helping you discover healing, reclaim joy, and feel more confident. No matter how much you’re in pain, or struggling right now, know that you do not have to face it alone. Asking for help is a courageous step towards healing.
EDUCATION
Bachelors Degree in Public Health | University of Maryland, College Park
Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work | Catholic University of America
Certificate in Non-profit Management | Georgetown University
EXPERIENCE
I have been a therapist for 11 years providing treatment to children and families.
My past experiences include:
Assessment, treatment planning, and therapy for individuals living with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and facing life changes or transitions.
Providing individual and group therapy in outpatient clinics that served the most vulnerable populations.
Public health outreach and education in the fields of mental health, cancer prevention and early detection, and domestic violence.
Reunification family therapy for families with history of separation due to immigration
Developed and Facilitated girl’s self-esteem and empowerment group
Provided educational workshops on self-care, burnout, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, emotional regulation, and stress management.
