
Karen Paul
Adjunct Professor
Biography
Karen Paul is an adjunct faculty member at the University of San Francisco, where she teaches graduate courses in Counseling Psychology. She holds a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) from USF, where she graduated with a 4.0 GPA. Karen is currently working toward licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and is also pursuing a Doctorate in International and Multicultural Education at USF.
With a background in mental health counseling, she brings practical experience to her teaching, having worked in various clinical settings, including trauma-informed care at the East Bay Agency for Children and providing individual and group therapy in school settings. Her research interests include the intersection of mental health, cultural identity, and social justice, particularly focusing on supporting underserved populations. Karen’s approach combines cultural competence, trauma-informed practices, and a strong commitment to student development.
Expertise
- Culturally competent and trauma informed mental health services
- Counseling Psychology
Research Areas
- Liberation psychology and mental health within immigrant communities
- Counseling psychology – culturally competent and trauma informed care
- Mental health and barriers for international students
Education
- University of San Francisco, EdD in International & Multicultural Education, Present
- University of San Francisco, MA in Counseling Psychology with MFT, 2022
- University of Memphis, BA in Psychology, 2014
Prior Experience
- Mental Health Clinician, InnerActive Health
- Associate Mental Health Clinician, East Bay Agency for Children
- Risk Manager, SynapseFI