Lamar native, Perla Chavira believes that every human is worthy of a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore their thoughts and feelings. Therapy is a collaboration between client and therapist and all decisions should be made with the client and for the client’s best interest. She feels that mental health treatment should be trauma-informed and follow evidence-based methods. Perla has experience working with youth and families, teens, and adults as well as LGBTQ+ and Spanish speaking populations. She has helped clients learn and develop coping skills, social skills, and relationship skills for managing their day-to-day life as well as their symptoms of anxiety, depression, and ADHD through trauma-informed approach, eclectic therapeutic approach and mindfulness-based interventions.
Outside of work, Perla likes to go on mini road trips, attend concerts, and music festivals. While she’s at home she enjoys playing video games, chilling with her dog and watching the United States Women’s National Team. Currently she serves on the leadership team of the UCCS MSW Program’s Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society as the Co-secretary of Online and Alumni engagement. Perla once build her own gaming computer!
Graduate Education:
University of Colorado at Colorado Springs – Working towards MA in Social Work
Undergraduate Education:
University of Colorado at Colorado Springs – BA in Criminal Justice
Residency Education:
Internship at Valley-Wide Health Systems and previously Southeast Health Group
Experience:
- 4 years working with youth and families in case management and therapeutic skill-building settings
- Skills trainings groups – integrating clients’ interests such as art, music, and video games
- Delivering culturally relevant and affirming care to LGBTQ+ individuals
Special Achievements:
- Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) committee at Valley-Wide