In my role as a bilingual-Spanish Special Education Coordinator working with many refugee families from Central America with extensive trauma histories, I pivoted and changed course into social work with a passion to help others heal, grow and empower themselves to live their best lives.As a graduate of Stony Brook University, I specialized in Integrated Health and Substance Use Disorders. In my role as a Senior Research Aide with Stony Brook's School of Social Welfare, I devoted myself to research-informed practice. I am a nationally recognized Masters Fellow with SAMHSA’s Minority Fellowship Program where I received specialized clinical training in the trauma-informed treatment of those with dual disorders.As a therapist in a mental health facility for two years, I was also able to hone my expertise while serving many others. My clients reclaimed their lives from the grips of addictions and mental turmoil. In my role as a caseworker for CPS, I assisted families torn apart by addiction and mental illness. The joy of witnessing my client's recovery fueled my passion to continue this important work and served as a compass for my future efforts.At a young age, I realized that I needed to feel accepted and loved. As I looked around, I was sadly disappointed that such a universal need had not been met for me or for so many others. With practical, evidence-based techniques, there is indeed a way forward towards a meaningful, present-day life worth living. As a fellow survivor, I can attest to this.I approach my clients as a driven, dedicated, and curious practitioner. I take great Pride and passion in working with adolescents and young adults (and their families) while they are exploring their sexuality and gender identity.Having worked with trauma survivors and denying myself my identity for many years, I have observed an abundance of life after trauma. My experience as a clinician has convinced me that anyone can regain their liberty and dignity.Do you long for the freedom to live your life according to your true self? It may even be that you are paralyzed, caught in a maze that seems inescapable. A life filled with many challenges and opportunities. Opportunities are not a puzzle to solve, but a process to live joyfully. The journey is not easy, but oh boy is it rewarding! No matter what obstacles you face, you do not have to face them alone - let's face them together, and break free from your bondage; together, so you can live the life that once seemed like a far-off dream. It would be an honor, privilege, and pleasure to be your therapist.