What inspired you to become a social worker?

My communications background and passion for engaging people in collaborative, non-judgmental spaces. TV production, theater, and improv fostered active listening and cocreating sessions that support clients to create meaning and define goals from their life story. My lifelong appreciation for human connection and conversation align with creating strong therapeutic alliances where clients feel seen, heard, and validated.

 

Can you share a memorable experience or moment from your career that made you proud to be a social worker?

As a therapist there are so many memorable moments of connection, emotional resonance, and resilience of the human spirit that have made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up! It’s a privilege to hold space and bear witness to clients’ pain and struggle, and to celebrate their growth and accomplishments.

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In my previous role as a prevention educator, it was satisfying to effect change on a larger scale, educating thousands of young people, community members, and professionals on components of healthy relationships and best practices on how to navigate unhealthy or abusive ones.

 

What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your work with JFS clients?

My client centered approach aligns with the diverse roster of adults and teens I see at JFS. Working through a lens of cultural humility allows me to meet each client where they are at and work toward their goals and objectives. Varied client concerns and issues keep me on my toes, necessitating continuous learning and clinical supervision with wonderful JFS colleagues. It feels meaningful contributing to a vital community resource which provides accessible high quality behavioral health services to clients covered by a wide array of insurance plans.

 

As we celebrate Social Work Month, what message would you like to share with the community about the importance of social workers?

Social workers are uniquely trained to work with individual clients considering the social and societal context that impacts them. Our ‘person-in-environment’ and ‘strengths-based’ approach advocates for client empowerment and social justice. Social work practice is guided by a code of ethics to ensure integrity and respect toward individual clients and our broader community as well.