I have a deep-rooted passion for mental health, especially in supporting children’s emotional and psychological growth. My path to becoming a therapist was profoundly influenced by my own experiences of facing trauma(s) in childhood, which instilled in me the importance of early intervention and understanding. These personal challenges, coupled with the joys and insights gained from building my own family and becoming a mother, have greatly sparked my dedication to this field. I am committed to creating a nurturing and empathetic space for children to explore their feelings, overcome obstacles, and realize their full potential. Witnessing the resilience and development of the young individuals I work with continually inspires me. By emphasizing the significance of mental health from a young age, I aim to empower not just the children in my care, but also their families, guiding them towards a journey of well-being and self-discovery.
Meet Evelyn
“If we embrace compassion and show genuine care for one another, we have the potential to bring a glimmer of light into someone’s darkest moments.”
Q & A with Evelyn
I was captivated by the magic of human connections and the healing power they hold. There was this inner pull, a calling, to be there for others in their moments of struggle, to be a beacon of hope and a source of strength as they face life’s storms. Listening to my heart and trusting my intuition, it became crystal clear—helping others through mental health, being that agent of change, was what I was meant to do. It’s a role where I get to blend my love for understanding, my passion for healing, and my genuine desire to make a positive impact. Every day, I’m honored to guide and support those on their journey, helping light the way as they explore the vast, often challenging, landscapes of their lives.
As a minority immigrant, my path to settling in the United States was paved with obstacles. Watching my mother grapple with financial hardships and battling depression and anxiety during my teenage years, I felt a strong calling. These experiences didn’t just shape me; they propelled me toward a career in social work with a special focus on mental health. My mission is clear: to guide others through their emotional journeys, offering support that’s both compassionate and respectful. It’s a way to give back, providing the kind of understanding and help I once needed.
Empathy and kindness are at the heart of my interactions with others. Simple acts of kindness and understanding can make a significant difference in the lives of others, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles and that there is warmth and support to be found in the world around them. I genuinely seek to understand the struggles and triumphs of those I help. Guided by integrity and my code of ethics, I uphold a high standard of honesty and transparency, fostering a trusting and safe environment for my clients. My commitment to respect and dignity ensures that I treat every individual with a positive, genuine regard, and I value their self-determination and autonomy. My core value of empowerment leads me to focus on nurturing the strengths and potential within each person, encouraging them to embrace their unique journey of growth. My approach is inclusive and open-minded, welcoming people from diverse backgrounds with open arms. Driven by a passion for advocacy and social justice, I work to create positive change and advocate for the rights and well-being of those in need.
With over 10 years of experience, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse population, including children, youth, adults, the elderly, homeless individuals, and those with disabilities or medical fragility. Throughout my career, I have held various roles that have provided me with a well-rounded understanding of different topics and issues. These roles have encompassed case management, managing transitional housing programs, school counseling, medical social work, and providing individual, family, and group therapy. I have also been actively involved in international social work initiatives, having worked in Nicaragua and Guatemala, which has enhanced my cultural competence and global perspective.
In my pursuit of professional development, I have attained certifications in CBT-Trauma Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, PPSC (Pupil Personnel Services Credential), and hold an Effective Facilitator Certificate. I am also credentialed in Spanish-Language Counseling, enabling me to provide services in both English and Spanish.
I actively attend workshops, seminars, and conferences to stay updated on the latest research, interventions, and best practices in the field. I seek out supervision, consultation, and mentoring from experienced colleagues to gain valuable insights and guidance. I also participate in peer learning and case consultations, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. Embracing a growth mindset, I regularly read relevant literature and take online courses to deepen my expertise. Additionally, I actively seek feedback from clients and colleagues, using it as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. By embracing a lifelong commitment to learning, I ensure that I provide the highest level of care and support to the individuals and communities I serve.
I’m excited to be involved in the continual efforts of trauma-informed care, the push to raise awareness regarding social causes and the empowerment of everyday people to take a stand and no longer stand by in the face of adversity. My passion is child welfare and foster youth, which comes from years of working in the field. I have a deep sense of empathy for how trauma impacts them. This fuels my desire to empower people to be active participants to serve and fight to make the world a better place. The critical issue at hand is the prevalent lack of awareness among individuals regarding the pressing real-world challenges that can occur within our communities, such as depression, child trafficking, and suicide. By shedding light on these issues, we can empower community members, urging them to be mindful and observant of their surroundings and inspiring them to take proactive action instead of being passive bystanders. By cultivating a culture of awareness and vigilance, I want to unite and join forces with others to create a safer and more supportive environment for everyone. It is essential to remember that taking action and refusing to be a bystander is key in addressing these challenges. I’m excited to be part of raising the collective power of each individual as we strive to be part of the solution.
Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) are paramount in my practice, and I actively participated in related initiatives within organizations. I strongly believe in creating inclusive and empowering spaces that honor every individual’s unique experience and worth.
With each individual, I aim to foster a safe and understanding environment where they can work through their mental health concerns. Together, we explore the root causes of their overwhelming emotions, identify triggers, and develop effective coping strategies. I firmly believe in empowering individuals to take control of their mental health, build resilience, and lead fulfilling lives. By combining evidence-based approaches — such as CBT therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy — with a client-centered and culturally sensitive approach, I strive to deliver comprehensive and compassionate care. I aim to facilitate personal growth, healing, and self-discovery while promoting positive change and well-being.
I am excited to embark on this transformative journey with each client, supporting them as they navigate life’s challenges, form healthy relationships, and unlock their full potential. Together, we can create a world where everyone’s mental health matters and all individuals can thrive.