About ME

Hi, I'm Heather! Thank you so much for viewing my portfolio and for taking

the time to learn a little bit more about me!

 

As an advanced generalist social work practitioner, I am beyond eager to grow as a professional, and to continue supporting young people as they work towards independence and success. In doing so, I aim to meet the complex needs of our communities and the people that live in them. Through my work as a Housing Specialist at Preble Street Teen Services, I have found deep meaning in supporting young people, who are experiencing, or who are at risk of experiencing, homelessness. Walking alongside young people, as they embark on their varying goals of stability, safety, independence, reunification, and so more, has been one of the greatest gifts that I have been given. Teen Services, Anti-Trafficking Services (ATS) and Preble Street as a whole, has opened my eyes to factors, such as poverty, domestic violence, addiction, mental illness, unemployment, incarceration and education, that cause extreme social injustices, such as youth homelessness.

 

As a LMSW, my goal is to impact individuals through program development and implementation, at the service delivery level. Additionally, I aim to support individuals by acting as an advocate, to raise awareness for client needs and connecting them to solution-based programs and services. My approach to social work is humanistic, strengths-based and person-centered. I believe in social worker-client collaboration, the right to self-determination and the importance of showing up for individuals when they are in need.

 

Previous to my present experiences and goals, I obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts, with a specialization in photography from the Art Institute of Boston at Lesley University. While I do not currently practice photography as a career, I do practice as a hobby and find great joy in creating art, whenever I get the chance. I am happily married, with two children, two dogs, one cat and seven fish. In my spare time, you will find me spending quality time with my family and friends, spoiling my fur babies, at the beach, in my garden, traveling, listening to music, creating art, and dancing like nobody's watching.