Sarah Mares
Masters Of Social Work, Associate Clinical Social Worker
Los Angeles,CA
Summary
Compassionate and motivated emerging social worker with a strong foundation in social justice and an understanding of systemic issues impacting marginalized communities. Experienced in program development, client advocacy, and building strategic partnerships. Skilled in applying therapeutic interventions with empathy, patience, and emotional intelligence to foster client growth and resilience. Eager to continue growing as a professional while making a lasting impact in the field.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
9
9
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Client Advocate
Partners For Justice
07.2022 - Current
- Managed an active caseload of 35 clients, consistently maintaining above-average caseload levels.
- Conducted comprehensive background interviews and research, gathered essential documents (e.g., records, vital documents, letters of support), and developed treatment plans to create detailed memoranda for attorneys.
- Led community outreach efforts to establish strategic partnerships that support clients and further the organization's mission.
- Assisted clients in enrolling in and fulfilling court-mandated requirements.
- Provided guidance and support for clients in applying for various benefits and resources, including Medical/Care, SSI/Disability, WIC, SNAP, Veterans services, Section 8 or Emergency Housing, and Child Support.
- Navigated clients through medical, mental health, and substance use treatment enrollment and program access.
- Supported clients in pursuing education and career development opportunities to secure applicable and sustainable employment.
Neurocognitive Disorder Unit MSW Intern
Los Angeles County Public Defender Office
01.2024 - 12.2024
- Collaborated directly with the Head Social Worker and Lead Clinical Program Manager of the Public Defender’s Office for supervision and guidance.
- Assisted clients and social workers in identifying and connecting with appropriate resources, coordinating collaboration with agencies such as the Department of Mental Health and Regional Center.
- Developed a comprehensive toolkit summarizing key learnings from the internship, including effective interventions and techniques for client support.
- Conducted research on neurocognitive disorders to deepen understanding of how brain function affects clients and the specific support they require.
- Practiced and implemented techniques, including de-escalation, to effectively communicate with and support clients in challenging situations.
- Provided critical information to attorneys to ensure accurate and thorough client representation in court.
- Engaged in ongoing professional development to stay informed about the latest best practices in the social work field.
ABA Behavior Technician
ACES
12.2021 - 07.2022
- Fostered positive interactions with children diagnosed with ADHD and Autism by implementing visual supports, simplifying communication, and using stress scales to transform emotions into tangible concepts.
- Conducted functional behavior assessments, functional analyses, preference assessments, and evaluations of basic learning and language skills to identify target behaviors and their underlying purposes.
- Observed, monitored, and documented problem behaviors through precise data collection (behavior-consequence records, graphs, and anecdotal notes).
- Collaborated as part of a multidisciplinary team to address the evolving needs of children and their families.
- Monitored client progress and provided ongoing guidance and consistent feedback to families to ensure effective interventions.
- Educated parents and caregivers on the application of appropriate behavior management techniques to promote consistent support at home.
Social Work Intern
Amigos De Guadalupe
08.2021 - 06.2022
- Developed and compiled materials to be passed down to future interns, including intake forms, service goals, one-sheeters with resources, and books and materials for children's activities
- Created a toolkit for clients transitioning into their first homes, featuring basic 'how-to' guidance and resources for ongoing support.
- Contacted providers and successfully arranged free event days for them to come in to help enroll clients in benefits, distribute clothing for children, and provide food.
- Performed client screenings and accurately recorded data in case files to facilitate clinical case coordination services and case management duties
- Mediated between family members to facilitate conflict resolution and build healthy family relationships
- Coordinated referrals for specialized services, ensuring timely access to essential supports such as housing, medical care, and basic necessities.
- Facilitated support groups and workshops to provide valuable services to clients
- Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings to coordinate care for clients.
College of HHS Deans Office - Student Assistant
San José State University
12.2018 - 05.2020
- Worked closely with the Dean and Dean's Assistant to maintain office efficiency and ensure the seamless execution of events.
- Assisted in event planning and coordination to ensure successful outcomes and positive experiences for attendees and departments.
- Communicated with students via phone, email, and in-person to address urgent educational needs and provide relevant information.
- Collaborated with multiple college departments to complete tasks and gain a comprehensive understanding of their operations.
- Prepared and edited documents to ensure clear, accurate, and professional communication, maintaining confidentiality at all times.
Youth Intern
Peace Over Violence
07.2017 - 06.2018
- Collaborated on the Social Media and Digital track, developing print and digital educational materials for audiences of all ages as part of community outreach initiatives.
- Attended community meetings to engage with the public on violence prevention strategies and raise awareness.
- Organized youth-focused group activities and outings to foster engagement, mentorship, and positive development.
- Participated in regular leadership team meetings to discuss strategies, address challenges, and share program successes.
- Attended workshops and presentations to expand knowledge and stay informed on project-related topics and best practices.
Education
Master of Science - Social Work
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA 01.2024 - 12.2024
Bachelor of Science - Social Work
San José State University
San Jose, CA 08.2018 - 05.2022
High School Diploma -
Montebello High School
Montebello, CA 08.2014 - 06.2018
Skills
- Case Management and Client Advocacy
- Crisis Intervention and De-escalation Techniques
- Empathy and Active Listening
- Data Collection and Entry (eg, using platforms like Airtable, Excel)
- Effective Communication and Collaboration
- Cultural Competence and Sensitivity
- Organizational and Time Management Skills
- Proficient in MS Office Suite and Google Applications
- Multitasking and Prioritization
- Bilingual (fluent in [English and Spanish])
Publications
Public Defense: Partners for Justice Hopes to Change the Field With Young Advocates Who Stand Up for Their Clients, Teen Vogue, March 2025
- Op-ed exploring personal experiences and the realities of advocacy work within the court system, reflecting on the journey that led to this role and the systemic challenges faced along the way.
- https://www.teenvogue.com/story/public-defense-partners-for-justice
Timeline
Neurocognitive Disorder Unit MSW Intern
Los Angeles County Public Defender Office
01.2024 - 12.2024
Master of Science - Social Work
University of Southern California
01.2024 - 12.2024
Client Advocate
Partners For Justice
07.2022 - Current
ABA Behavior Technician
ACES
12.2021 - 07.2022
Social Work Intern
Amigos De Guadalupe
08.2021 - 06.2022
College of HHS Deans Office - Student Assistant
San José State University
12.2018 - 05.2020
Bachelor of Science - Social Work
San José State University
08.2018 - 05.2022
Youth Intern
Peace Over Violence
07.2017 - 06.2018
High School Diploma -
Montebello High School
08.2014 - 06.2018
Similar Profiles
Sarah MaresSarah Mares
Client Advocate at Partners For JusticeClient Advocate at Partners For Justice
Caroline DiazCaroline Diaz
Victim Impact Coordinator at Restorative Justice Partners IncVictim Impact Coordinator at Restorative Justice Partners Inc
Alyssa WidickAlyssa Widick
Victim Offender Mediator at Restorative Justice PartnersVictim Offender Mediator at Restorative Justice Partners
Steve SobelSteve Sobel
VP OF CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT/Lead Copywriter at Critical Content/SK Global GroupVP OF CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT/Lead Copywriter at Critical Content/SK Global Group
IRIS LOPEZIRIS LOPEZ
Senior Improvement Coach at CORE DistrictsSenior Improvement Coach at CORE Districts