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Meet Colette

Clinical Director

Licensed Social Worker.

Trauma-Informed Therapist. 

Curriculum Developer and Trainer

Serving individuals, families, and youth with compassion, clarity, and cultural humility.

Colette became a licensed clinician in 2013 after spending nearly 15 years working within the public child welfare system. Her extensive experience in this space laid the foundation for a deep understanding of the challenges faced by families, practitioners, and the system itself.


In 2014, she founded Focused Clinical Solutions, and by 2015, she began offering clinical supervision to child welfare professionals. She developed a clinical case management approach specifically designed for working with involuntary clients involved in the child welfare system—an approach rooted in empathy, accountability, and cultural responsiveness , In addition to providing psychotherapy services to individuals, families, and couples, Colette trains professionals and other community members on supporting child safety and family well-being.


During this time, Colette also facilitated monthly group supervision sessions, creating a space for clinical interns to learn from one another, deepen their skills, and explore real-world clinical challenges. ​​

As supervision opportunities expanded, Colette began managing a team of short-term clinicians to deliver therapeutic services, particularly during the height of COVID-19, when the need for mental health support in the community reached unprecedented levels.
Since then, she has continued to provide supervision to trainees pursuing their bachelor's or master's degrees in clinical fields. Her commitment to mentoring and supporting the next generation of clinicians is matched by her dedication to community wellness.
Today, Colette serves as the Clinical Director of Village Connect, a nonprofit organization that provides culturally responsive, trauma-informed services to strengthen families and empower underserved communities.

​​Credentials & Affiliations

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (California)

CAMFT-Approved Certified Clinical Supervisor

 

20+ Years in Trauma-Informed, Equity-Centered Work


Gottman Level 1 and 2 Trained Clinician

EMDR Trained Clinician

Each training is interactive, grounded in current research, and adaptable to your team’s needs. I work with professionals across sectors to deepen awareness, shift culture, and build sustainable practices.

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Before Reasonable Suspicion

Rethinking Mandated Reporting

Mandated Reporting laws are designed to protect children, but in California, they’ve often had unintended consequences for families and communities. If you're a mandated reporter who wants to support families without immediately resorting to reporting, this training is for you. Learn about California’s updated laws on neglect. Discover how to step into the role of a community ally by connecting families with local resources before a report becomes necessary. By the end of the training, you will understand the latest legal updates, your role as community supporters, and how to build trust-based, preventive support systems for families.

What you will learn:

  • Understand updated California laws regarding neglect.

  • Apply the role of community supporter in professional practice.

  • Integrate local community pathways of support into daily work.

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After the Report

Understanding the Impact of Mandated Reporting

Making a child abuse report is never a simple task. And many practitioners are left wondering what happens next—and how to continue offering support. If you’ve ever questioned the process or felt unsure about how to maintain your client relationship post-report, this training is for you. This course sheds light on the investigation process, the consequences for families, and how clinicians can maintain therapeutic relationships post-report.

What you will learn:

  • Explain the child abuse investigation process.

  • Describe the emotional and relational impact of mandated reporting on families and professionals.

  • Identify strategies to sustain a supportive relationship with clients after a report is made.

Program Development Development & Consulting

Beyond Workshop i partner deeply to help organizations embed emotional wellness and cultural humility into their infrastructure.
If you want sustainable change outside a one time training.I'd Love to design Alongslide you.

Curriculum & Policy Development

Leadership Coaching & Supervision model

Curriculum & Policy Development

10 years embracing healing and fostering a culture of care.

What began as a solo practice on April 1, 2014, has grown into a collaborative space for healing, growth, and community. Ten years later, the vision continues to grow. I now work alongside a network of clinicians, psychologists, educators, and helpers in the field — all of us committed to deep care and meaningful connection. Because healing is not a one-person job — it’s community work.

My Philosophy & Approach

Being a clinician isn’t about the 50-minute session. It's about showing up completely - emotionally and mentally. It's about offering kindness when you want to be understood. Offering silence when you want to stay in your thoughts. Offering my full attention so that you can fully heal.
When I take time off, it’s to care for myself so I can be fully present with you.
“Healing isn’t about fixing what’s broken. It’s about returning to what feels whole — even if that means beginning again.” — Colette

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