my approach:
thoughts for new clients:
ABOUT ME:
As a compassionate human being, I believe it is important to build trusting therapeutic connections from a strength based humanistic approach. As mutual life long learners, people are able to self actualize and find their own ability to cope and thrive along their journey through these connections and shared human experiences. With an empathic and genuine ability to connect with others, I have worked extensively with the LGBTQ community, Immigrants and refugees, and other marginalized communities of color that have faced discrimination from institutionalized racism. I have also worked with people experiencing homelessness, substance use and co-occuring mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and trauma.
I received my Bachelor's degree in social work from Northeastern Illinois University, where I currently teach as part of the Bachelors level program. I also hold a Master of Social Work degree from Loyola University Chicago with a concentration in Leadership Development for Social Services.
I have served on many community boards in support of fair access to education for underrepresented and disenfranchised populations and am currently a member of the leadership committee for the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute where I enjoy leading and mentoring minority youth.
I have an innate ability to successfully help anything green grow and enjoy tending to my indoor greenhouse of exotic plants in my spare time. I love to cook an array of ethnic foods and find comfort retreating into my own spiritual space whenever I find time to play the guitar or piano.
