KAREN CRAWFORD SIMMS

Karen Crawford Simms, MFT, is a consultant, trainer, facilitator and coach, as well as a Training Affiliate with the State of Illinois Complex Trauma Training Consortium. For over 30 years, she has advocated for individuals, families and communities who face marginalization because of race, gender, sexual orientation or identity, health, or socioeconomic status.

Karen founded Trauma & Resilience Initiative, Inc. (TRI), a not-for-profit organization based in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois. TRI trains, educates and advocates for individuals, families, organizations and communities, and it also promotes resilience and justice. In particular, its work focuses on reducing the impact of adverse community experiences. To do that, TRI supports healing for people affected by trauma, while also equipping organizations, communities and providers to become trauma- and justice-informed.

In addition to her work with TRI, Karen owns Meridian K Consulting & Coaching Services. Through it, she offers training and technical assistance to community organizations, groups and schools, as well as coaching for activists, helpers and healers.

Many organizations request Karen as a trainer because of her extensive knowledge of trauma and her dedication to justice. She also brings energy and enthusiasm to her trainings.