My mission is to ensure you get the care you deserve.
Transforming stress management
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 19 years of experience providing quality mental health care, trainings and program management. Having worked with diverse and multicultural populations, I will provide an empathetic and non-judgmental approach. Each person is unique as are their circumstances and the type of support they need. I will help you identify the root cause of your stress (StressRoot) and learn how to apply coping skills and mindfulness to improve daily functioning. It is important that appointments are a collaborative process. During our time together, I will take into account the emotional, cognitive, physical, and cultural possible roots of your stress. I can provide services in English and Spanish. In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors, cooking and traveling.
It’s essential that my clients get personalized suggestions on what is best for them in order to decrease their stress. I use a client centered system of guidance and education designed to address your StressRoot.
A modern approach
My Background
From a young age, I enjoyed helping others while working as a camp counselor, substitute teacher and English as a Second Language instructor. I received a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh in Interdisciplinary Studies focusing on psychology, Latin American culture, and creative expression. My Master’s degree is in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Over the past five years, I have been providing in-person and telehealth therapy and coaching services. In this capacity, I continue to provide services for racially and ethnically diverse adolescents, college students, young adults and adults to address issues of anxiety, stress management, trauma, grief, executive functioning, and life transitions while utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoeducation, solution focused therapy, positive psychology and mindfulness.
I have conducted training on Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Informed Care, Cultural Competency, Crisis Management and Understanding the Brain: How to Guide Youth and Young Adults to Success and other topics. In addition, I worked as an adjunct professor teaching social work and worked for a non-profit organization as the Director of Youth and Family Services. I have specialized training in Coaching, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mental Health First Aid Facilitator Training and Youth Mental Health First Aid Facilitator Training.
Skills I use when working with clients
Interactive communication skills including active listening
Empathy and compassion
Unique ability to establish and maintain rapport with culturally diverse groups of clients and colleagues
Critical thinking to solve complex problems
“Jessica, thank you so much for all of your insight. I really benefited from working with you and I am grateful. All the best.”