I worked with the homeless population, suffering from co-occurring disorders. I conducted individual therapy, counseling, and group therapy. While my patients did not live on the facility grounds, I was able to successfully utilize a myriad of therapy techniques, such as evidence-based therapy/ analysis, a personalized client-centered approach to mind and body well-being, individual counseling, group therapy, and drug and alcohol addiction management. These practices were conducted amongst a diverse spectrum of clients and topics. I conducted a Woman’s group, which was a safe place for adult women, to discuss issues and receive necessary support and feedback. I was also very active in the “Art Group” which gave patients the opportunity to engage in self-expression, thus aiding in improving their overall mental health.

I was an applied behavior analyst working with children on the “autism spectrum,” in the Torrance Unified School District. We used the “Applied Behavior Analysis” method, as this approach to therapy was the only type of research proven to work with children on the Autism Spectrum. My work included working with children of autism, in their specific public-school setting, during their routine school day, and then conducting home-based sessions to incorporate the family into learning and practicing task-driven programs to help them understand and cope with effective ways to manage situations and struggles encountered with their child going forward. This method has proven to not only benefit the child’s daily life, but to help the loved ones feel comfortable and stress-free when dealing with the many complex circumstances encountered. Not only do disabilities effect the patient, but they also impact the entire family.

I work with adults with severe mental illness and co-occurring disorders. I conduct individual and group psychotherapy in an intensive outpatient setting. I facilitate a Women’s support group, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) group, Seeking Safety group, and an Art Therapy group. This experience includes working with couples and families.