ABOUT ME

I am a Southern California native with family roots that extend across the United States and Mexico. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of California, Riverside, a Master of Social Work degree from Loma Linda University, and certification in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation from Georgetown University. I am now a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience serving children and families in various mental health and community settings.

Some organizations that have been a part of my professional journey include Riverside University Health System - Behavioral Health, UC Riverside School of Medicine, Rady Children’s Hospital, and West Ed California Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation Network. I have experience in school-based programs, residential treatment facilities, outpatient treatment programs, and primary care mental health integration settings. My passion for early childhood services fully developed when I had the opportunity to manage a prevention and early intervention program that integrated social, emotional, and behavior supports into school and community settings across Riverside County.

Children learn and grow when they are safe, having fun, and are supported by their parents, care providers, and teachers. Being a lifelong learner myself, I recognize the unique aspects of how adults acquire knowledge as well. I understand that no single approach is right for everyone. I have been trained in a variety of evidenced based practices including Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) among others. I am certified by UC Davis as a trainer of therapists for PCIT, am a facilitator of Child Adult Relationship Enhancement (CARE), and am faculty for the California Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant Training Program. All consultation, training, and therapy services prioritize compassion and strength-building. The aim is to enhance connections, reduce stress, and foster a supportive environment that encourages lasting positive growth.