About Margot

2022- Present

California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR)

As a Behavioral Health and Wellness Consultant for the Office of Employee Wellness (OEW) within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), I create and deliver wellness education, design curriculum, presentations, statewide articles and offer short-term mental health services for employees. In addition, I respond to in-field needs during critical incidents, address large-scale announcements affecting staff, and provide general mental health support throughout the state. This role also involves serving as the mental health liaison for the Statewide Peer Support Program for all of CDCR.

2020-Present

Go2Therapy

As a Psychotherapist and Owner, I deliver individual and couples psychotherapy services primarily through a secure virtual platform, with in-person Equine Assisted Psychotherapy sessions. I conduct comprehensive intake assessments, maintain electronic files in compliance with state and federal standards, and utilize evidence-based treatment modalities tailored to clients' needs. I ensure ongoing treatment effectiveness through continuous planning and progress reviews. Additionally, I implement marketing strategies for successful referrals, stay abreast of business standards in California, Washington, and Utah, and engage in regular peer consultation for networking and case discussions.

2020-2022

California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR)/ California Correctional Healthcare Services (CCHCS)

As a part of a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) team we collaborated with the nursing services department to create a specialized program for individuals nearing parole in California. Targeting populations with unique needs preparing to release, including long-term inmates, youth offenders, sex offenders, developmentally disabled individuals, those aged 60+, transgender individuals, and pregnant inmates outside the mental health system, I conducted a minimum of 3 sessions before release to provide resources, develop plans, and impart essential skills for a successful release. I performed social needs evaluations to prioritize areas for post-release support. Additionally, before creating the parole centered program, as part of the Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment Program (ISUDT), I assigned substance abuse treatment to incarcerated individuals, conducted screenings, determined treatment needs post-release using American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) criteria, assisted in parole plans, facilitated problem-solving, developed treatment plans, coordinated follow-up care, and engaged in short-term counseling interventions to address substance use disorders. Active participation in special projects enhanced program effectiveness and patient care.

Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison (SATF) /California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR)

As a Clinical Social Worker, I assisted incarcerated patients in accessing available treatment and resources to reduce recidivism and enhance functioning. I prepared comprehensive biopsychosocial case histories, contributed to Interdisciplinary Treatment Teams, and provided individual and group therapy following Mental Health Service Delivery System guidelines. I participated in discharge planning, Level Of Care considerations, and offered emergency clinical services as needed for incarcerated patient safety. Engaged in various meetings and committees, I contributed to policy development, clinical operations, and professional development. Effective communication and collaboration with clinical team members, supervisors, and custody staff were integral to my daily responsibilities.

2013-2014

Southern California Foster Family & Adoption Agency

Extraordinary Families (Current Name)

As a Foster Care Social Worker, I cultivated relationships with a caseload of up to 15 children, their foster and birth families, and other team members. I organized visits to foster homes, facilitate communication between all parties, and served as a liaison with the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Monitoring numerous visits and interactions, I compiled detailed quarterly reports covering case plans, placement reasoning, adjustments, visitations, and team collaborations, providing comprehensive insights into the child's needs and progress.

2012

Comprehensive Life Resources

As a Graduate Social Work Intern, I delivered therapeutic crisis intervention services to diverse populations, including low-income individuals, those with severe mental illness, substance abusers, and previously incarcerated individuals. I conducted clinical assessments, developed treatment plans, and created an intern operations manual for use by graduate clinical interns at the agency.

2012

Seattle Municipal Courthouse; Probation Department

As a Graduate Social Work Intern, I supported the Day Reporting program by conducting orientation for new clients, performing intake assessments, and guiding clients on eligible resources for program success and life changes. I submitted status reports and warrant requests to the courts, administered breathalyzer and urine analysis tests, and developed a comprehensive manual outlining the duties and responsibilities of employees working with the Day Reporting Program.