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I was born in Mexico and brought to the United States by my parents at the age of 2, as they sought a safer and better life for our family. Sadly, my father passed away when I was 5, and although I have no recollection of him, my mother worked tirelessly to provide for my two older brothers and me. She is my greatest role model and inspiration.
I identify as Mexican American (Chicana) and take immense pride in my culture and traditions. I attended Lehman College for both my undergraduate and graduate degrees, graduating in 2011. It was during my time at Lehman College that I discovered my true calling in social work. Previously, I had been studying nursing, but a professor introduced me to social work, and I realized it was the path I was meant to follow. I have always wanted to make a difference and give back to my community, and through social work, I am able to help individuals and families live healthy and fulfilling lives.
Throughout my career, I have worked in various roles, starting as a Multidimensional Family Therapist at the Children's Aid Society in the South Bronx, where I provided individual and family counseling using evidence-based models. I then transitioned to The Jewish Board in the North Bronx, where I served as a case planner, therapist, and eventually a supervisor of the evidence-based model Functional Family Therapy-Child Welfare. Currently, I work at Fordham Leadership Academy, where I began as a Social Work Director through a Mental Health CBO partnership and was later promoted to a DOE Social Worker by the school principal. I am honored to work with teenagers and families in the community alongside a caring and dedicated team.
As a person of color, I am passionate about working with all marginalized people, including Latinos, Blacks, and other BIPOC populations. I want individuals from marginalized communities to feel seen, heard, and supported. It is crucial to me to normalize mental health concerns, validate their feelings, and provide culturally responsive care.
Throughout my life, I have unfortunately faced racism, and I have responded in different ways, sometimes questioning my reactions and seeking to improve my handling of such situations. As a continuous learner, I aim to engage in thoughtful and deliberate discussions about race to raise awareness and promote accountability.
In my clinical approach, I incorporate psychodynamic principles, and I have also received training in evidence-based models such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and motivational interviewing.
My clients experience me as compassionate, empathetic, and reliable. I strive to create a supportive and valued space for them, while remaining mindful of the power differential in our therapeutic relationship and managing my personal biases.
Feedback from my clients often highlights their comfort in talking to me, perceiving me as credible and relatable.
On a personal note, I am a proud parent of two teenagers and two dogs who hold a special place in my heart. Spending time with my family brings me joy, and I am an avid reader of non-fiction books. As a fun fact, I work in the same high school campus from which I graduated, fostering a sense of connection and nostalgia.
Schedule your FREE Consultation with Susana HERE