Karen R. Blackwell, MSW, LCSW

Karen Blackwell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Denver and her Masters of Social Work from the University of New England. Karen’s knowledge and skill is focused on working with children whose lives have been impacted by trauma, abuse and neglect. She has over 20 years of experience and teaches locally, nationally and internationally.

Karen is trained in research-based treatment for children including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Integrative Treatment of Complex Trauma for Children. Prior to her work as a child trauma therapist, Karen worked with the FBI as a Child/Adolescent Forensic Interviewer, providing interviews with children, teens and adults who were victims of or witnesses to crime. She worked closely with federal, state, tribal, and international law enforcement, child protective services, medical personnel, victim advocates and treatment providers.

Prior to her work with the FBI Karen led the Denver Children’s Advocacy Center’s Forensic Interview and Evaluation Program. She facilitated Denver’s multi-disciplinary team that ensures a prompt and coordinated response to child victims of crime. She served on the board of the Denver Domestic Violence Coordinating Council and facilitated the Denver Child Fatality Review.

Karen lives in Pine, Colorado with her husband and two dogs. She loves the outdoors, cooking, hiking, health and nutrition, and sharing her life with animals.