about karoleen

Karoleen Decastro is an artist, certified trauma-informed coach, and business growth consultant living and working around the world.

For over 15 years, Karoleen worked as a software designer and leader for various studios and major tech and healthcare clients. Living with C-PTSD and healing from childhood trauma grew her awareness of how present-day stress and trauma from past events can impact daily well-being, personally and professionally. This experience ignited her desire for greater peace and autonomy—for herself and others—in an increasingly demanding capitalist system. 

In 2019, Karoleen launched her own UI/UX design consultancy, later expanding to growth consulting for solo-owned businesses. Being self-employed became her way to not only bring value to others, but to meet her financial needs while prioritizing her well-being.

Years of healing and this career transition led to her coaching others to do the same—to build more values-aligned, fulfilling, profitable careers, freelance businesses or other pursuits that prioritize freedom and a more sustainable way to meet survival needs. 

Her coaching approach integrates both trauma-informed “inner work,” such as nervous system and somatic practices, and “outer work,” like business and career strategies, as both are needed to thrive.

Outside of coaching and consulting, Karoleen enjoys running, painting, and playing guitar—activities that connect her with her body, creativity, and joy on her ongoing healing journey.

As part of Healing and CPTSD, Karoleen contributes her tech and design expertise to building the upcoming Trauma Directory. This vital tool will help trauma survivors connect with essential trauma-informed and trauma-trained therapists, coaches, and healers.