Can you tell us more about your current role at Child Guidance Center?

I am a Psychological Assistant and certified Parent Child-CARE (PC-CARE) provider for children ages 1-10 and their caregivers. In 2014, I joined Child Guidance Center as a pre-doctoral intern, where I worked on my dissertation exploring the effects of mindfulness on stress and well-being, specifically among Latino parents in our community, and facilitated CGC’s Family Mealtime Coaching program which educated parents on the importance of nutrition and active play to reduce obesity and improve health. I then became a certified Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) provider. Last year, I was fortunate to work on a Mission Hospital grant providing therapy for uninsured or under-insured individuals, children, adolescents, families, and couples.

Why is CGC’s mission important to you?

When I was looking for a predoctoral internship, a colleague suggested I apply to CGC and told me I would love Dr. Marta Shinn. Dr. Shinn was the first Black-Latina doctor I had ever met, and I was so excited and heartened to see someone “like me” in the field. Diversity of CGC’s staff is of the utmost importance when helping children and families within marginalized populations. I knew I could use my background and experience as contributions to give back to this community. I feel honored to be a part of CGC’s mission to empower children and families and help them reach their  potential. It is challenging work, but it is fulfilling work.

Did you grow up in the Orange County area?

I am originally from Uruguay,  grew up in New Jersey and moved to Orange County when I was in junior high. I attended Chapman University for my undergraduate degree, Argosy University for my master’s degree, and The Chicago School of Professional Psychology for my doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology.

What is your favorite thing about working at CGC?

My favorite thing about working at CGC is their investment in their employees. I truly feel valued. I am challenged daily and have developed a variety of skills which I pull from frequently to come up with solid solutions. At CGC, we are given consistent and updated trainings which assists us in becoming better and more effective clinicians. We have a supportive team of clinicians, staff and leadership at CGC who are receptive to our needs. This, in turn, aids in providing excellent service to our clients. I am grateful and proud to consider CGC my second family.