Karen Lee Garay, MD
I speak: English, Spanish
My gender: Female
Where I practice
About me
I’m happy to share a little about myself and the work that inspires me. I'm originally from Puerto Rico but grew up in Miami, which helped shape my appreciation for family, culture, and strong connections. Those values guide the way I approach care each day.
Biography
Before becoming a physician, I spent time working in finance — a path that helped me develop strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of complex systems. While that experience was formative, I eventually realized that what mattered most to me was building meaningful, lasting connections with people. That realization led me to medicine. I've worked in pediatrics in Louisiana, Texas, Colorado, and now California.
Over time, I found my calling in supporting children with autism and their families. I care deeply about recognizing autism as a neurodevelopmental difference and helping families understand it with clarity, compassion, and respect. My goal is to support children as they grow into their happiest, most fulfilled selves and to help families feel informed, supported, and empowered along the way.
About my practice
What I enjoy most about my practice is meeting truly wonderful kids and getting to know them as individuals. Every child brings their own strengths, perspectives, and personality, and I value taking the time to understand each one within the context of their family.
My approach centers on partnership and understanding. I strive to create a space where families feel comfortable asking questions, sharing concerns, and exploring how best to support their child’s development. Helping families navigate complexity with care and reassurance is a central part of how I practice.
How I thrive
Swimming and listening to podcasts are some of the ways I unwind and stay curious. Spending time with my family brings a strong sense of grounding. These quieter, intentional moments shape how I stay present and engaged with the families I care for.
My office
Languages spoken by medical staff
Help is available in your language. Learn more.
My provider type
Physicians and SurgeonsMedical groups, plans, and locations
Southern California Permanente Medical Group
Plans accepted
- Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO)
- HMO
- Medi-Cal Managed Care
- Point-of-Service Plan (POS)
- Senior Advantage
Orchard Medical Offices
Contact information
- Advice/appointments/cancellations/messages
- 1-833-574-2273 (toll free)
- Appointments/information
- 1-800-800-7990 (toll-free TTY for the hearing/speech impaired)
Notifications
- Provider offers telehealth services.
My training, certifications and licensing
Medical school
St. George's University School of MedicineBoard certification
Developmental-Behavior Pediatrics
American Board of PediatricsPediatrics
American Board of PediatricsMedical training
Fellowship
Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics
University of Colorado School of MedicineResidency
Pediatrics
Tulane University School of MedicineJoined Permanente Medical Group
2025Active license information
License number
A198714License type
Physician and SurgeonLicense issuing state
CALIFORNIANational Provider Identifier (NPI)
1811428147Cultural Competency Training (CCT)
PendingMy hospitals
This information is not available at this time.
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This page was last updated on: 07/19/2026