Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
LANGUAGES
Accomplishments
Affiliations
Certification
Interests
Timeline
Generic
ELIZABETH DIAZ-AMBRIZ

ELIZABETH DIAZ-AMBRIZ

La Palma,CA

Summary

Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience in trauma, depression, anxiety, and parenting challenges. National and international speaker on trauma, certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Incredible Years program. Expertise in family systems and individual therapy, delivering customized interventions that enhance client trust and progress. Dedicated therapy professional using a Multicultural approach to ensure a safe therapeutic environment, fostering healthy family dynamics and relationships.

Proven ability to guide clients through emotional challenges while maintaining collaborative approach. Highly regarded for adaptability and teamwork, ensuring consistent therapeutic outcomes.

Overview

26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (CEO)

SERENITY COUNSELING
11.2022 - Current

Achieved excellent reviews from individuals and couples, fostering long-term counseling relationships for ongoing support.

  • Conducted intake and needs assessments to set therapeutic goals and establish professional relationships with clients.
  • Strengthened client coping skills by teaching stress management strategies and mindfulness practices during therapy sessions.
  • Specialized in trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, PTSD, and parenting issues.
  • Worked collaboratively with families, teens, individuals, couples, and young children.
  • Created safe environments to empower clients in discovering their inner strengths.
  • Tailored integrative treatment approaches to meet unique needs of each client or family.

Director Of Clinical Services

Helpline Youth Counseling
07.2020 - 01.2024
  • Oversaw and managed clinical supervisors and staff to ensure high-quality service delivery.
  • Conducted weekly group and individual clinical supervision for pre-licensed staff and students.
  • Facilitated team meetings to align on strategies and enhance collaboration across departments.
  • Implemented quality assurance testing to uphold clinical standards and improve operational efficiency.
  • Evaluated risk management and legal issues, providing guidance to mitigate potential challenges.
  • Developed and implemented clinical policies in compliance with County, State, and Federal mandates.
  • Recruited, hired, and trained all clinical staff while promoting ongoing professional development.
  • Achieved CARF accreditation by maintaining regulatory knowledge and ensuring industry compliance.
  • Championed best practice sharing among departments, resulting in more consistent execution of client care processes and improved outcomes.
  • Boosted staff morale with regular recognition for exceptional work performance and contributions to the team''s overall success.
  • Promoted a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging staff input on process enhancements and best practices adoption.

Clinical Supervisor

Helpline Youth Counseling
07.2018 - 01.2020
  • Monitored and controlled delivery of mental health services per Agency standards and DMH practices.
  • Developed and implemented on-the-job training and orientation for new staff alongside Program Managers.
  • Coordinated with management to plan staff training, interview, hire, and retain personnel.
  • Oversaw referral and intake process, ensuring high-quality service delivery within the community.
  • Provided ongoing coaching and clinical support to staff, ensuring fidelity to Wraparound model.
  • Delivered clinical supervision to assigned MA and BA level staff, offering 24/7 support for high-risk clients.
  • Facilitated individual supervisions, group supervision, and team meetings to enhance wrap staff development.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care for clients with complex needs.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate care for clients with complex needs, ensuring comprehensive support was provided across all domains of life functioning.

Clinical Supervisor (contractor)

Aspira Net
08.2017 - 01.2020
  • Delivered clinical supervision for assigned staff in Wraparound Program serving high-crisis clients 24/7.
  • Oversaw four Wraparound Teams, including Clinicians, Facilitators, CFS, and Parent Partners.
  • Ensured staff maintained caseloads, delivered service plans, and reviewed progress notes in EXYM.
  • Conducted clinical group supervision and individual sessions in evidence-based practices, ensuring model fidelity.
  • Performed assessments for clients as needed to support care coordination.
  • Assisted with quality assurance trainings and conducted audits for DMH and CISR Wrap Audits.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive support for clients with complex needs.
  • Supervised therapists in training, offering constructive feedback on professional development.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate care for clients with complex needs, ensuring comprehensive support was provided across all domains of life functioning.

Clinical Supervisor II/ Community Based

Five Acres
03.2017 - 08.2017
  • Conducted interviews, hired, and trained clinicians while managing performance evaluations.
  • Supervised clinical activities including case assignment distribution and productivity tracking.
  • Facilitated clinical group supervision in evidence-based practices, ensuring model fidelity.
  • Maintained audit-ready standards through quality assurance and peer audits.
  • Fostered team collaboration via regular staff meetings and case conferences.
  • Recruited and trained staff, providing ongoing supervision and development opportunities.
  • Ensured quality service delivery through completion of service plans and progress notes.
  • Coordinated multidisciplinary care for clients with complex needs, promoting comprehensive support.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate care for clients with complex needs, ensuring comprehensive support was provided across all domains of life functioning.

Clinical Supervisor III / IFCCS Program

Children's Institute CII
01.2016 - 10.2016
  • Facilitated collaboration among Wraparound, IFCCS, and FSP services with internal departments and external partners.
  • Supervised staff both individually and in groups, providing 24/7 consultation and support in high-crisis situations.
  • Monitored documentation of services by assigned staff to ensure compliance with agency and contractual requirements.
  • Delivered clinical supervision to clinicians and paraprofessionals across three Intensive Services Programs: IFCCS, Wraparound, and FSP.
  • Directed overall coordination, evaluation, and development of direct reports under supervision.
  • Conducted interviewing, hiring, and training of new employees; planned and assigned work tasks.
  • Appraised employee performance while managing rewards, discipline, complaints, and conflict resolution.
  • Ensured billable staff maintained appropriate caseloads to achieve budgeted daily billable hour expectations.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate care for clients with complex needs, ensuring comprehensive support was provided across all domains of life functioning.

TF-CBT Consultant

Drew Child Development
04.2012 - 11.2015
  • Delivered individual and group therapy using IY Model for Teen Parent Group and IY Social Skills Group.
  • Provided parenting education curriculum for foster and biological parents, including court referrals.
  • Conducted clinical supervision as TF-CBT consultant to ensure adherence to model guidelines.
  • Monitored staff compliance with TF-CBT model to facilitate accreditation processes.
  • Completed Bio-Psycho-Social assessments for MAT, primarily in Spanish, presenting findings at DMH and DCFS meetings.
  • Facilitated workshops and training sessions for client staff, enhancing their skills and knowledge in key areas.
  • Evaluated client needs and expectations, establishing clear engagement goals.


PEI Clinical Coordinator (Contractor/temporary job)

California Hispanic Commission on Alcohol & Drug Abuse
05.2013 - 02.2014
  • Delivered administrative and clinical supervision to staff and therapists for effective EBP model implementation.
  • Conducted orientation, in-service training, and ongoing supervision alongside Program Manager.
  • Provided hands-on coaching and guidance, enhancing clinical competencies of supervisees.
  • Mentored new clinical staff members for proper onboarding and orientation processes.
  • Developed strong relationships with community partners to enhance support services available for clients beyond the clinical setting.
  • Coordinated continuing education opportunities for staff members to stay current on industry advancements and best practices.
  • Conducted regular performance assessments and provided constructive feedback to staff members, promoting high-quality service delivery.

TF-CBT Lead Clinician

Pacific Clinics Latina Youth Program
10.2009 - 07.2011
  • Provided clinical and administrative supervision to a team of 12 therapists as TF-CBT Lead Clinician.
  • Delivered treatment modalities for clients to achieve mental health goals while ensuring DMH compliance.
  • Maintained consistent communication with DMH and DCFS staff regarding referral updates and community outreach.
  • Managed a caseload of four to five TF-CBT clients alongside lead clinician responsibilities.
  • Conducted two-day workshops in collaboration with professionals for approximately 30 Pacific Clinics’ staff.
  • Served as EBP Lead for Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Incredible Years Model, training over 300 clinicians.
  • Contributed to executive meetings on evidence-based practices, providing insights on TFCBT implementation strategies.
  • Assisted IY Lead Clinician in assessing medical necessities, delivering individual and group therapy alongside community agencies.
  • Evaluated program effectiveness using data-driven approaches, identifying opportunities for process improvements and client outcome enhancements.
  • Delivered training workshops for staff members on relevant topics such as trauma-informed care or cultural competency in mental health services.
  • Provided crisis intervention services as needed, effectively de-escalating situations and connecting clients to appropriate supports.

Bilingual Therapist / Latino Service Coordinator

Pacific Clinics
03.2006 - 12.2008
  • Delivered therapeutic services to diverse clientele, completing assessments and documentation promptly.
  • Provided bilingual therapy primarily in Spanish for ongoing cases.
  • Participated in training programs, case conferences, and IEP meetings within and outside Pacific Clinics.
  • Managed after-hours on-call coverage as part of rotating schedule.
  • Facilitated case management and connected clients to community resources.
  • Oversaw Family Preservation Clients, carrying a significant client load for clinic.
  • Built strong rapport with clients, fostering trust and open communication for effective therapy sessions.

Wraparound Facilitator

The Help Group
03.2005 - 12.2005
  • Completed intakes, assessments, and service coordination plans within deadlines.
  • Performed case management and facilitated access to community services.
  • Delivered group treatment and parent support classes under AB1733 guidelines.
  • Participated in outpatient staff meetings, training workshops, and weekly case presentations.
  • Coordinated multidisciplinary teams to ensure culturally competent care for children and families.
  • Conducted parenting groups in Spanish and English, funded by DCFS.
  • Implemented culturally responsive practices, respecting diverse backgrounds and integrating cultural perspectives into wraparound services.
  • Collaborated effectively with multidisciplinary teams to provide seamless support for families across various domains.

Therapist (Trainee)

Hollywood Sunset Free Clinic
12.2002 - 03.2005
  • Delivered therapeutic services to diverse clientele through family-centered, strengths-based approaches.
  • Conducted intakes and assessments, ensuring comprehensive understanding of client needs.
  • Developed service coordination plans to facilitate client progress and resource access.
  • Maintained accurate progress notes and documentation, adhering to deadlines.
  • Led psychotherapy groups and individual therapy sessions in English and Spanish.
  • Implemented bilingual therapeutic techniques to enhance communication and effectiveness.
  • Provided culturally competent care, addressing unique client backgrounds and challenges.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to optimize client support and outcomes.
  • Completed thorough case documentation for each client, maintaining confidentiality and complying with professional standards.

Therapist (Trainee)

California State University
01.2001 - 02.2002
  • Conducted bilingual therapy for individuals and families as part of training.
  • Developed assessment and treatment plans tailored to client needs.
  • Enhanced client progress by conducting comprehensive assessments and creating individualized treatment plans.
  • Completed thorough case documentation for each client, maintaining confidentiality and complying with professional standards.

Case Manager

L.A. BRIDGES Program at Virgil Middle School
01.1999 - 02.2002
  • Identified at-risk adolescents through intake assessments and case management evaluations.
    Attended specialized seminars addressing anger management, domestic violence, teen pregnancy prevention, and LGBTQ+ topics.
    Created personalized service plans by establishing participant goals and monitoring outcomes.
    Linked participants with community services to address identified needs.
    Maintained communication with teachers and school administrators to ensure holistic support.
  • Maintained accurate documentation on all cases, ensuring compliance with regulations and confidentiality requirements.
  • Provided crisis intervention support for clients experiencing emergencies, using appropriate techniques to de-escalate situations safely.

Education

Master of Science - Psychology

California State University
Los Angeles, CA
01.2004

Bachelor of Science - Psychology

California State University
Los Angeles, CA
01.1998

Skills

  • Culturally sensitive training
  • TF-CBT National Certification
  • Bilingual communication
  • Incredible Years certification
  • TF-CBT consultancy
  • Multicultural competence
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Child therapy techniques
  • Trauma-informed care
  • Crisis management
  • Couples counseling
  • Clinical supervision
  • Parenting skills training
  • Motivational interviewing
  • Family systems therapy

LANGUAGES

Fluent in English and Spanish (both oral and written skills).

Accomplishments

  • Special Recognition and Awards given by the Mayor of the City of Los Angeles
  • 2001 Outstanding Service Awards
  • 2002 Outstanding Service
  • 2006 Highest Productivity of the Year
  • 2007 Highest Productivity of the Year
  • 2007 Outstanding Family Services
  • 2010 Certificate of Recognition for Outstanding Contributions Made to Implement of EBPs within Pacific Clinics, Arcadia, California.

Affiliations

  • Orange County Member of American Psychological Association
  • CAMFT
  • Association for Sports Psychology
  • BBS Registered

Certification

  • TF-CBT trained in 2008
  • TF-CBT National certification- 2011
  • LMFT - Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Interests

  • Enjoy participating in running for overall physical and mental well-being including doing charity races
  • Enjoy hobbies that combine physical activity with outdoor exploration
  • Youth mentor, providing guidance and support to empower the next generation of leaders
  • Volunteering for community initiatives to give back to local communities and make a positive impact
  • Mindfulness Practices
  • Participating in fundraising events to support local charities, schools, or community projects
  • Personal Development and Self-Improvement

Timeline

Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (CEO)

SERENITY COUNSELING
11.2022 - Current

Director Of Clinical Services

Helpline Youth Counseling
07.2020 - 01.2024

Clinical Supervisor

Helpline Youth Counseling
07.2018 - 01.2020

Clinical Supervisor (contractor)

Aspira Net
08.2017 - 01.2020

Clinical Supervisor II/ Community Based

Five Acres
03.2017 - 08.2017

Clinical Supervisor III / IFCCS Program

Children's Institute CII
01.2016 - 10.2016

PEI Clinical Coordinator (Contractor/temporary job)

California Hispanic Commission on Alcohol & Drug Abuse
05.2013 - 02.2014

TF-CBT Consultant

Drew Child Development
04.2012 - 11.2015

TF-CBT Lead Clinician

Pacific Clinics Latina Youth Program
10.2009 - 07.2011

Bilingual Therapist / Latino Service Coordinator

Pacific Clinics
03.2006 - 12.2008

Wraparound Facilitator

The Help Group
03.2005 - 12.2005

Therapist (Trainee)

Hollywood Sunset Free Clinic
12.2002 - 03.2005

Therapist (Trainee)

California State University
01.2001 - 02.2002

Case Manager

L.A. BRIDGES Program at Virgil Middle School
01.1999 - 02.2002

Bachelor of Science - Psychology

California State University

Master of Science - Psychology

California State University
ELIZABETH DIAZ-AMBRIZ