Her Story
About Kelly
Kelly Woolf, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker, nonprofit executive, and strategic consultant with more than 15 years of experience at the intersection of mental health, organizational leadership, and social impact. Splitting her time between, New York Mexico City, she earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology from The New School and her Master of Social Work from the Silver School of Social Work at New York University while working full time throughout the program. She began her career in nonprofit leadership before completing clinical training through internships at the Institute for Family Health and The Door, ultimately earning her clinical social work license in 2020 after seven years of supervised practice. Throughout her nonprofit career, Woolf held several leadership positions, including Chief Impact Officer at Multiplying Good, where she advanced national initiatives focused on civic engagement, volunteerism, and community impact. After 15 years in nonprofit leadership, she transitioned to focus on her growing private psychotherapy practice while expanding her work as a consultant to mission-driven organizations. Today, she advises nonprofits and social impact organizations on strategic planning, brand development, organizational growth, and communications, while also providing psychodynamic psychotherapy with a specialization in trauma-informed, culturally responsive care. Her clinical work centers on supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. In addition to her professional practice, Woolf has served for more than seven years as a board member of WE GOT US NOW, a national organization dedicated to improving the well-being of children and young adults impacted by parental incarceration. A recognized advocate for mental health equity and systems change, she frequently contributes her expertise to public discussions on trauma, public health, and organizational leadership. Operating a remote psychotherapy practice from Mexico City, she has intentionally built a sustainable model that allows her to balance clinical care, consulting, and advocacy while remaining committed to helping both individuals and organizations thrive.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kelly
01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to strive to bring your whole self into your professional life. Don't feel the need to compartmentalize who you are or minimize parts of your experience or skill set to fit expectations. Embrace your unique strengths, remain open to new opportunities, and recognize that there is not always a single right or wrong path. Success comes from showing up authentically, leading with confidence, and fully applying your talents, perspectives, and abilities in every opportunity.
02What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges and opportunities in the field today is navigating the rapid growth of artificial intelligence in mental health and consulting. While technology has the potential to expand access and improve efficiency, it also raises important questions around ethics, human connection, privacy, and the need for thoughtful regulation. Additionally, the lasting effects of the post-COVID era have highlighted challenges related to isolation, reduced connection, and increasingly siloed ways of living and working. These shifts have impacted boundaries, time management, availability, personal well-being, and how individuals define purpose and value in their professional lives. Addressing these challenges requires a renewed focus on intentional connection, sustainable practices, and maintaining the human-centered approach that is essential across all fields.
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