I grew up in the Christian Church attending weekly services with my family. My walk with Christ truly began for me as a young girl. In my household there was financial hardships that had us leaning very much on our faith. Call it a child’s faith but my hope and strength came through the Lord. I knew He was the one to bring me peace, joy and I trusted everything else would follow. Although home life was not luxuries I found so much joy serving my Church community and I fell in love with God’s grace and presence that I pursued it every chance I got. This brought so many ministry opportunities which grew my faith and devotion.

Before I knew I felt a calling to become a therapist, I served as a Youth Leader at my Church and went on a mission trip to Ukraine to serve many children and teenagers of all ages solidify their walk with Christ. This encouraged and motivated me to serve the Lord by serving his people. I recognized the need and felt the passion to use the skills I have acquired to connect with individuals, to teach about God’s love and help them acquire the resources and skills to create the life they desire.

Shortly after I pursued a career in Social Work knowing in my heart I wanted to be part of families’ journeys to attain a life they dreamed of. I have experience working as a Child Abuse Investigative Social Worker, Medical Social Worker and a School Social Worker. In each role I have closely worked with families and children addressing their emotional, behavioral and home needs.

I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, stress, and those children with behavioral needs. In my work I use varying modalities such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, behavioral therapy and play therapy. I provide services in both English and Spanish.

A little bit about my personal life, I love reading, visiting coffee shops in hope of discovering delicious specialty lattes. I love spending time with my husband, daughter and being in community with my friends, family and Church.

Vanessa is an Associate Clinical Social Worker (ACSW 91585). She is practicing under the supervision of Mayra Bedolla-Lopez (LMFT 110680).