Hi, I’m Dr. Karla Najera, PhD, LCSW-C

I’m a bilingual therapist, clinical supervisor, and the founder of Three Hearts Therapy and Supervision Services in Maryland.

My passion for social work started when I was in high school, when I worked as an aide with children with autism. That experience helped me realize how much I valued supporting others and being present for people during some of the most important moments of their lives.

I’m also the daughter of Honduran immigrants and a first-generation professional. My own background has shaped the way I understand family, culture, hard work, success, and the pressure that can come with being the person who is expected to make it, figure it out, and keep going.

I know that our culture can be a beautiful source of connection, strength, and identity, while also sometimes making it difficult to talk about mental health, set boundaries, ask for help, or choose a different path than the one we were raised to follow.

That understanding is a big part of why I do the work I do.

I earned my Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), my Master of Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University, and my PhD in Social Work. My doctoral research explored the financial literacy experiences of first-generation Hispanic social workers, allowing me to further explore the experiences and challenges that can shape the lives of first-generation professionals.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work with individuals, children, and families from many different backgrounds. Today, I’m especially passionate about creating a space where first-generation and high-achieving professionals can be honest about what they’re carrying without feeling like they have to have it all together.

I believe therapy should feel like a space where you can show up as yourself, feel understood, and not have to explain or minimize the parts of your story that matter to you.

Whether we speak in English, Spanish, or a little bit of both, you’re welcome here.

I’m glad you’re here, and I’d be honored to be part of your journey.