Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
References
Timeline
Generic

Swanzi Sheriff-Saunders

Los Angeles,California

Summary

Seasoned Pastor and Clinical Therapist with achievements in providing spiritual and psychological leadership to individuals of diverse backgrounds. Highly adept in preparing sermons, providing pastoral care and professional clinical counseling.

Overview

26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

Private Practice
Los Angeles, CA
01.1998 - Current
  • Provided individual and group psychotherapy services to adults, adolescents, and children with a variety of mental health issues.
  • Engaged in ongoing assessment of clients' needs to determine appropriate treatment plans.
  • Developed strategies to help individuals address and resolve personal, interpersonal, and psychological issues.
  • Conducted intake interviews and assessments as well as clinical evaluations.
  • Provided crisis intervention services when needed.
  • Advised patients on developing healthy lifestyle habits including nutrition and exercise regimens.
  • Collaborated with other professionals such as psychiatrists, physicians, psychologists, and social workers to ensure comprehensive care for clients.
  • Implemented evidence-based therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution-focused brief therapy.
  • Attended workshops and conferences related to current trends in mental health care.
  • Responded promptly to emergency calls from clients who are experiencing severe distress or suicidal ideation.
  • Ensured compliance with all state laws regarding confidentiality regulations within the scope of practice.
  • Counseled clients to help each understand and overcome personal, social and behavioral problems.
  • Addressed issues through emotionally intelligent conversation and conflict resolution techniques.

Pastor

Valencia Christian Center
Los Angeles, CA
11.2018 - 03.2024
  • Provided spiritual guidance and direction to church members.
  • Developed weekly sermons and delivered them during Sunday services.
  • Mentored new pastors and provided pastoral care when needed.
  • Recruited volunteers for various ministries within the church.
  • Facilitated conflict resolution among church members.
  • Met with individuals seeking counseling or advice on personal matters.
  • Engaged in public speaking engagements at civic organizations or other churches.
  • Provided oversight for all staff positions within the organization.
  • Visited, counseled and prayed with church members to provide pastoral care.
  • Preached and ministered to members and congregation through multiple avenues of communication.
  • Conducted special services like baptisms, weddings and funerals.
  • Managed all aspects of ministry.
  • Worked with church leaders, staff and ministry teams to achieve growth of church and to foster positive community impact.
  • Met with individuals in hospitals and prisons, offering comfort and support.
  • Administered communion, baptisms and other religious rites.

Education

PsyD - Psychology

California Southern University
Irvine, CA
08-2019

Master of Science - Psychology

Fuller Theological Seminary
Pasadena, CA
03-1996

Master of Arts - Theology

Fuller Theological Seminary
Pasadena, CA
06-1985

Bachelor of Arts - Biblical Studies

Life Pacific College
San Dimas, CA
06-1982

Skills

  • Preaching/Teaching
  • Staff Leadership
  • Biblical Knowledge
  • Counseling/Clinical Therapy
  • Sermon Preparation
  • Shepherding
  • Spiritual Guidance
  • Public Speaking

Certification

  • Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC 233), State of CA

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Pastor

Valencia Christian Center
11.2018 - 03.2024

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

Private Practice
01.1998 - Current

PsyD - Psychology

California Southern University

Master of Science - Psychology

Fuller Theological Seminary

Master of Arts - Theology

Fuller Theological Seminary

Bachelor of Arts - Biblical Studies

Life Pacific College
Swanzi Sheriff-Saunders