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Cleopatra Williams, LCSW
I was born and raised on the beautiful and serene island of Nevis, West Indies. In pursuit of a higher education, I graduated with my Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Lehman College in 2000. I continued to further my studies and obtained a Master's Degree in Clinical Social Work from Fordham University in 2001. Throughout my professional career, I had the privilege of providing direct services to individuals and families whether in a home, school or in an office setting. These experiences allowed me to work with various ethnic groups and cultures.
I have worked alongside school Administration, Teachers, Direct Staff, Community Partners and the Judicial System to ensure the need of the families were adequately being met. Throughout my years in the field, I have worked as a direct staff, a Program Manager and in the capacity of a Community School Director, providing supervision to staff and Master’s Level Social Work and Mental Health Counselors Interns. Currently, I work within the Department of Education as a Social Worker, supporting students and families who are in Temporary Housing.
I believe as human beings we are all connected but there is something special about working with Black people. We are a people of strength and resilience and I enjoy being able to provide them with access to resources that aid in building individual strength and community. The ability to relate to my clients through their individual, family and community struggles and supporting their journey throughout their lives to become the full version of themselves is very rewarding.
Growing up in Nevis, I didn’t know what racism was until I migrated to the United States of America. During my upbringing, the majority of people looked like me and not once did I feel inferior. My personal encounters with racism have been through microaggressions within the workplace, which I did address. I was raised with a strong sense of self-worth therefore, when situations arise that cause me to feel uncomfortable, I do my best to address them.
During my educational training, Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) have been my therapeutic framework. I also utilize Strength Perspective supporting clients to build on their strengths for long lasting changes.
My willingness to empower individuals to achieve their highest potential is my ultimate goal and is evident through my daily work. Therefore, throughout my career, my clients have verbalized my ability to empathize, actively listen and support them are a few of my traits. I have also been referred to as “the quiet storm.”
I enjoy traveling, reading, music and spending time with my friends and family. I am also an active member of my church and currently co facilitate a support group of mature adults discussing and strategizing around life challenges. I inspire my clients to pave a path and "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined." - Henry David Thoreau.