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Meet Your Therapist

I'm glad you're here! 

Hi, I’m Karen Castro, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) based in Phoenix, Arizona.

 

I work with first-generation Millennials and Gen-Xers who are tired from carrying the weight of it all—striving to succeed, caring for others, and holding it together on the outside, even when things feel overwhelming on the inside.

​

​In our work together, you’ll have space to be honest, imperfect, and fully human —
without judgment, and without needing to translate your experiences or identity.

Karen Castro, LPC, smiling outdoors in natural light, wearing a blue blouse.

I believe healing starts when you feel safe to show up as you are —
not who you were told you had to be.

Whether you’re feeling:

  • stuck

  • disconnected

  • overwhelmed

  • or just done with survival mode...

I'm here to help you explore what’s really going on beneath the surface —
and support you in finding clarity, self-trust, and a path forward that actually feels like yours.

Experience and Expertise

Since 2019, I’ve supported adults on their healing journeys, with a focus on first-generation Millennials and Gen Xers of color who are carrying the weight of unresolved childhood wounds. Maybe you grew up having to be:

  • the responsible one

  • the fixer

  • the quiet one

All while navigating family expectations and putting your own needs aside.​​​

Whether you’re dealing with:

  • anxiety

  • burnout

  • one-sided relationship patterns

  • or just a deep sense of feeling stuck...

I offer a space where your story is seen, and your experiences make sense. Together, we’ll explore what’s shaped you, reconnect with your strengths, and work toward healing that feels:

  • real

  • grounded

  • and aligned with who you are — not just who you were taught to be.

"Geometric gray spheres arranged in a balanced formation, symbolizing harmony and stability.
Therapeutic Approach
Two hands reaching toward each other with sunrays shining through, symbolizing connection, hope, and healing.

My approach is centered around you: your experiences, your pace, and your definition of healing. I integrate several trauma-informed methods to support your process:

  • EMDR to help you process and release stuck trauma from the past

  • Internal Family Systems (IFS) to explore and care for the parts of you that developed to survive

  • Polyvagal-informed therapy to help your nervous system feel safer and more regulated

Each of these tools is tailored to meet you where you are, so healing can feel supportive, not overwhelming.

​

These approaches are especially helpful for childhood trauma —where the pain often lives not just in our memories, but in our bodies, relationships, and sense of self.

Together, we’ll gently untangle those patterns with care and curiosity, while building tools to help you feel more:

  • grounded

  • connected

  • and whole

I look forward to supporting you as you find healing and balance!

Calming forest scene with sun rays shining through trees.
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