Candidate Statement
We became therapists to help people. Broader recognition and respect for the expertise and training signified by our license would make that easier. We could increase access to mental health care if we were eligible for Medicare reimbursement and could hold higher-level positions within the VA. According to a 2018 study by UCSF, “California will need to make substantial investments to meet future demand for behavioral health occupations.” It is incumbent that CAMFT elevate the profession to meet those needs.
Part of advancing our profession is acknowledging our role as important providers of post-disaster mental health treatment. CAMFT is a place that helps the helpers because we are affected alongside our clients in times of crisis. We must continue to anticipate and meet the needs of our professional members so that we can be supported as we help others. I see great opportunities for CAMFT to expand its supportive programming.
Californian families will continue to endure wildfires and other tragic consequences of climate change. My leadership acumen was tested through the record-breaking Tubbs Fire (2017) resulting in mass evacuations and loss of life, again during the Kincade Fire (2019), and throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. I was part of my chapter’s innovative communal efforts to provide recovery, creating systems and trauma-informed solutions to address the health and safety of our members and our community. We helped raise over $1 million dollars for mental health recovery efforts, which provided payments to local MFTs, trained over 500 professionals, and resulted in published research to help guide other communities who encounter large-scale disasters.
My vision for CAMFT includes increasing accessibility and visibility of the LMFT license. During my presidency of Redwood Empire CAMFT, I initiated the chapter’s first Racial & Social Justice Committee to facilitate dialogue and training in cultural competency and anti-racism and developed a scholarship program to support pre-licensed and newly licensed therapists. I implemented major technology changes to our therapist directory, improving the visibility of clinicians of color, LGBTQ+ members, and additional language speakers. Accessibility also includes respecting our Associates with living wages and pathways to early involvement in CAMFT chapters by providing for their unique needs. Towards that aim, I would bolster CAMFT’s assistance of chapter leaders to develop programs that build healthier, better resourced members.
In 2021 I was honored with CAMFT’s Outstanding Leader Award for exemplary service, commitment, and contribution to my chapter. My RECAMFT service includes serving as its President-Elect, President, Past President, and Director-At-Large. Additionally, I have served on numerous committees since 2015.
My leadership style is built on rapport with the members I serve. I welcome your emails and calls with your professional association-related concerns or questions. Contact me.
I am honored to have been nominated for service as CAMFT’s President-Elect. It is a humbling experience to be called to serve at a higher level, and I am keen to rise and respond to this call. I am asking for your vote so we can move forward CAMFT’s mission to elevate our profession.