Name: Crystal Garcia
Position: Clinical Intervention Specialist @ Rosemary Elementary in Campbell/San Jose, CA
What led you to your current position? I interned at an elementary and middle school as a school social worker/counselor during my final year in my MSW program last school year, and it was really my first time being in position that focused on mental health/social emotional behavioral health in a school setting. While it was definitely very challenging for me, I really enjoyed being able to work with so many kiddos and support them in further identifying strengths and developing further skills. After the internship, I felt that I barely even grazed the surface of what this type of work actually looks like. I was seeking an opportunity to continue with that line of work while also continuing to have the support of a team and supervisor. When I interviewed at Seneca, I was excited about the idea of working as part of a UE team, while also still working directly with a clinical supervisor. I also felt that the UE model was in line with my own beliefs as a person and professional.
Fun Fact/Quote? I love tea! I have it pretty much every morning. I also love making the tea into lattes (sometimes). A few years ago, while on a trip to San Luis Obispo, I had my first “bowl of soul” —which is I believe just is a combination of steamed soy milk along with an herbal tea (usually chamomile), honey, and some spices—and now I love those too!
What does your average day look like? It's different each day, but this week I’ve been trying to start off my mornings with a “mindfulness while driving” exercise I found on YouTube in order to be in a better headspace before getting to work. After that, I get to my site, log on to my computer, get scheduling and other things settled. Then meet with different students throughout the day, sometimes connect with teachers or parents about their students, and try to finish up my day with mental health notes.
Why do you do this work? I highly believe in the power of education and how positively it can impact someone’s life... unfortunately, I don’t believe our school system is set up to really be able to adequately serve all students and their varying needs. I do this work in hope that one day all students will feel supported and as though they truly have a place and sense of belonging within the education system because I think everyone deserves that.
Position: Clinical Intervention Specialist @ Rosemary Elementary in Campbell/San Jose, CA
What led you to your current position? I interned at an elementary and middle school as a school social worker/counselor during my final year in my MSW program last school year, and it was really my first time being in position that focused on mental health/social emotional behavioral health in a school setting. While it was definitely very challenging for me, I really enjoyed being able to work with so many kiddos and support them in further identifying strengths and developing further skills. After the internship, I felt that I barely even grazed the surface of what this type of work actually looks like. I was seeking an opportunity to continue with that line of work while also continuing to have the support of a team and supervisor. When I interviewed at Seneca, I was excited about the idea of working as part of a UE team, while also still working directly with a clinical supervisor. I also felt that the UE model was in line with my own beliefs as a person and professional.
Fun Fact/Quote? I love tea! I have it pretty much every morning. I also love making the tea into lattes (sometimes). A few years ago, while on a trip to San Luis Obispo, I had my first “bowl of soul” —which is I believe just is a combination of steamed soy milk along with an herbal tea (usually chamomile), honey, and some spices—and now I love those too!
What does your average day look like? It's different each day, but this week I’ve been trying to start off my mornings with a “mindfulness while driving” exercise I found on YouTube in order to be in a better headspace before getting to work. After that, I get to my site, log on to my computer, get scheduling and other things settled. Then meet with different students throughout the day, sometimes connect with teachers or parents about their students, and try to finish up my day with mental health notes.
Why do you do this work? I highly believe in the power of education and how positively it can impact someone’s life... unfortunately, I don’t believe our school system is set up to really be able to adequately serve all students and their varying needs. I do this work in hope that one day all students will feel supported and as though they truly have a place and sense of belonging within the education system because I think everyone deserves that.
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