Unique Families, Unique Therapy

"We strive to be the best version of ourselves. Parenthood is no different, but it is an add-on to our pre-existing life. Finding a work/life balance is challenging for most people, and can be especially difficult for parents with limited time. I did not appreciate that struggle until I became a parent myself. When typical parenting techniques do not seem to work, it can be natural to question ourselves or our children. Let’s reframe those thoughts together. I am excited to be a part of a team that strive to support both individual children, teens and their families."

Jessica (she/her) is an associate clinical social worker with a master’s in social work with an emphasis in mental health and substance misuse. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in recreation from San Jose State University.

At LiveMoves in San Jose, CA, Jessica provided personalized therapy to adults experiencing homelessness. While working at the LGBTQ+ shelter, she provided affirmative and culturally competent therapy to members of the LGBTQ+ community. As a 988 Volunteer Crisis Counselor with Santa Clara County, she has gained over 700 hours providing care for those in need.

Before her therapy career, she worked in parks and recreation. As a Park Ranger she developed her skills in working with a diverse array of people across various cultures, backgrounds, and ages. She provided a wide range of services, including medical care, educational programs, law enforcement, and conflict resolution. This role enhanced her ability to engage effectively and empathetically with people from all walks of life. Jessica ignited curiosity as a Science Educator at The Youth Science Institute, making science an adventure for kids aged 4-13.

Outside of her professional life, Jessica is a dedicated mom to a fun and active son. She has a deep interest in animals and loves sharing fascinating animal facts. When she’s not working, you might find her hiking with her son and dog and looking for birds and bugs.

Licensing and Education

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• Associate Clinical Social Work License # 124239

• Masters in Social Work, Ohio State University

• Bachelor of Science in Recreation, San Jose State University

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Therapeutic Approaches

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Trauma-informed care

• DBT skills

• Solution-Focused Therapy

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Clinical Background​

•  LiveMoves, Clinical Social Therapist Intern, Mountain View, CA
  • ​provided psychotherapy to adults and families at shelter sites
  • conducted individualized assessment and developed treatment planning with clients to target identified goals, which included housing, stress management, anger management, naand social skills
  • assessed clients for various diagnoses including PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Gender Dysphoria
  • processed various clinical topics with clients such as mood disorders (depression, anxiety), substance abuse, relationship conflicts/issues, housing challenges
  • worked with multidisciplinary team with shelter site management and case managers to provide additional resources
  • managed safety and suicidality concerns, and developed safety agreements with clients

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• Park Ranger, City of San Jose, CA​
  • ​provided crisis intervention services, emergency medical care, and de-escalated conflicts with diverse population visitors
  • engaged with homeless population and provided support through collaboration with medical and police departments to ensure mental health advocacy and safety within population
  • collaborated with local agencies to coordinate special events and educational programs targeting socioeconomically disadvantaged communities
  • trained and provided oversight for new ranger staff and volunteers

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• The Youth Science Institute, Science Educator, San Jose, CA

  • developed and delivered curriculum and lessons for diverse group of students ranging in ages of 4-13

  • led large group educational sessions for 20 – 60 students

  • provided feedback for parents whose children attended classes

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• Santa Clara County Suicide & Crisis, 988 Volunteer Crisis Counselor, Santa Clara, CA

  • conducted suicidal and homicidal assessment (over 700 hours of crisis management and experience)

  • provided safety planning to ensure safety

  • ensured additional crisis and mental health resources were provided, including referrals for community-based services

  • participated in 80 hours of crisis intervention training focusing on de-escalation, suicide assessment and safety planning

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Associations & Memberships

• National Association of Social Workers (NASW) member

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