September 2025 - December 2025 Counselor Spotlights

Junko Ota

I am currently attending Pepperdine University MFT/PCC program. Some of my passions and hobbies include watching reality TV, cuddling my two cats and finding new coffee spots around the are! A fun fact about me is that I was born in Japan and moved to India when I was 6. I lived in India for 13 years before moving to the US for college! When I'm not at school or CPLA, I'm a nanny/babysitter.
         In 10 years, I see myself in a group private practice working with teens and young adults. I hope to have a catio for my cats (my biggest goal in life) and adopt some dogs as well with my partner. I hope to show children their unlimited potential and help them recognize what they truly deserve (which is everything and more). I wanted to work at CPLA because I love working with children and wanted to experience school based counseling. I love how supportive everyone at CPLA is! I have felt extremely supported especially during crisis calls. I also love the schools I am at!

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Mary Carp

I'm currently studying to be an MFT in the Clinical Psychology program at Antioch University-Los Angeles. My passion is promoting and advocating for the mental health and wellness of kids, teens, and their families. My favorite nervous system reset is to be out somewhere where it's green as far as the eye can see, preferably with my partner and our three kids and two dogs! A fun fact about me is that I've lived in three corners of the U.S.: Southern California, New York City, and Central Florida. One before kids and two with! When I'm not at school, home, or practicum, I am a baby and mama group co-facilitator with one of my besties, an IBCLC and Pediatric O.T.!
     In 10 years I'll be an LMFT, PMH-C working in (maybe running) a private practice supporting children, adolescents, families, and perinatal folks! I hope to change the world by helping at least one family tune down the outside noise and deeply connect with their child's inherent goodness just as they are. I wanted to work at CPLA's company because its ethos really spoke to me. Meeting children where they are, in their time of need, and in turn connecting hundreds of us counselor trainees ---- is simply amazing. What I love most about working at CPLA is my clients, their families, and the school where I counsel! And I adore my colleagues, my supervisors, my FSP, and the team of directors.

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Robin Guzman

I am currently an MFT student completing my Master's Program in Counseling Psychology at California State University, Long Beach! I am so incredibly passionate about the creative arts! Whether it is crafting, drawing, writing, singing, dancing, or acting, they are all my safe spaces where I can be myself most authentically. A fun fact about me is that I am a big fan of musicals! I hope that one day I may also become a playwright. Currently, I also work as a Teacher's Aide at a non-public school for special needs children. My passion for working with adolescents all began when I interned as a support person for disadvantaged youth with academic and social/emotional concerns. In the past, I served as a board member for my theater organization during undergrad.
     In 10 years, I would love to start up my own private practice and blend more creative methods into my work. I want each client that I work with to feel seen, heard, and accepted for who they are when coming into counseling, and leave sessions embracing themselves and knowing their inner power. When applying for practicum sites, I discovered that CPLA aligned with my interests of incorporating art/play therapy into my work with youth. It was always something that I was excited to put into practice, and it's been amazing seeing how powerful creativity can really help express oneself when words fail. More than that, I was also a part of the Catholic school system growing up, so it is an honor to be giving back to my community. As I am starting out my career as a therapist, I feel so wholly supported by everyone at CPLA. I am truly blessed to be training under the guidance of and working alongside such insightful, inspiring, and caring individuals. CPLA spreads the message of hope with an integrative approach to empowering the client as a whole individual.

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Amara Baptist

I'm currently at Sacred Heart University studying to be a LPCC. I’m a big foodie who loves discovering new restaurants, staying active (boxing is my go-to for both fitness and mental health), and curling up with a great book to recharge. A fun fact about me is that I was a professional ballerine for 13 years! I currently work at a private practice called Assessment Consultation and Treatment (ACT Psychology), where I assist the CEO and clinical psychologist with administering and scoring assessments to help kiddos receive the community healthcare and support they need.
     While I’m not entirely sure where I’ll be in ten years, I envision a peaceful and fulfilling life, one where I spend each day doing what I’m passionate about and, hopefully, sharing that life with a family of my own. I hope to change the world by planting seeds of empathy, confidence, and self-belief in children who may not fully see their own light quite yet. Sometimes, all it takes is one person who believes in you to shift your entire life plan, and if I can be that one person for just one kiddo, then I feel I have fulfilled my purpose. I wanted to work for CPLA because, when I read about its mission, I felt a deep sense of connection and purpose. Children are the heart of our future, and being able to support their growth while surrounded by compassionate mentors and colleagues feels like a true blessing. In just a few months, I’ve truly fallen in love with my school — the amazing faculty, my wonderful kiddos, and the inspiring CPLA counselors who have welcomed me so warmly. I’ve already learned so much and feel so grateful to be part of this community. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the school year holds!

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Raquel Rivera

I am currently studing at California State University of Long Beach in the Counseling Psychology program for my MFT degree. I love to read mystery/thriller novels. I love mystery movies or novels because I try to solve the mystery before I get to the end. My other favorite pastimes are to go on walks or hikes, and trying new cafes. While I currently don't hold other positions, I used to work in the ABA field which is where my passion for working with children stemmed from. Working with families and children is such an honor, and to be able to be a safe space in this capacity is special.
     In ten years, I am hoping to be licensed and continuing my work with children. I hope to also get experience with other populations, but I am specifically interested in working with transitional age youth. The world can be complicated and stressful. My hope is to demonstrate to others, especially to children, that there is love and support in the world, and that they are never alone no matter the circumstances. I wanted to work with CPLA because I had worked with children before, but not in this capacity. I was interested in how my work would differ as a safe space for a child, helping them grow and learn new skills in a therapeutic space. Additionally, in the interview, I felt incredibly welcomed and supported. All of the interview jitters I felt melted away. It gave me good insight into what it would be like working at CPLA. I love CPLA because I feel that they allow us, as newbies, to learn who we are as clinicians. They support us to learn and grow while also giving us the opportunity to improve strengths we already have. They also value us, not just as their interns, but as people with real lives, emotions, and struggles.

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Esmeralda Aguillon

I am currently a student at California State University Fullerton. My favorite hobbies are running, playing golf with my partner, trying new coffee shops, walking with my fur babies, spending quality time with family and loved ones. A fun fact about me is that I am currently training for the 2026 Los Angeles Marathon. I am a Recovery Support Coordinator and Substance Abuse Counselor at a non-profit organization, where I provide early intervention and treatment services, caregiver support, and education on mental health and substance use.
     In ten years, I envision myself running my own private practice, traveling, and actively engaging in social justice work to advocate for my community. Being in a field that fosters continuous learning and growth is both a privilege and an honor. I am proud to be part of meaningful spaces I aspire to contribute to. I hope to change the world by being present with each child, providing a safe and supportive space where they feel seen, heard, and understood. Even helping one child feel emotionally validated and empowered can create a ripple of positive change in their world. I chose to work with CPLA because I deeply resonate with its mission, vision, and values. Children, adolescents, and families hold a special place in my heart, and in a world filled with so much uncertainty, being able to share space and connect with each child and parent during my time at CPLA has been truly meaningful. I love working at CPLA because of the incredible children and families I get to serve. Supporting and guiding parents as they navigate their child’s emotions and behaviors has been both a meaningful and valuable learning experience. One of the best parts of CPLA is the strong support and guidance from the team. My FSP, Marilyn, has been an absolute blessing throughout my journey here, and my clinical supervisors have provided such helpful insight and knowledge, something I deeply appreciate.

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Amber McCready

I am currently studying at California State University Fullerton. Some of my passions include yoga, playing chess, and roller-skating. A fun fact about myself is that I’m graduating with my Master’s in Clinical Psychology this December! In 10 years, I hope to be a therapist in private practice and being a mentor for other young professionals. Sometimes, we are the only person in a child’s life that truly sees them for who they are and who they want to be. If we allow them to fully and authentically express themselves, they may gain the confidence and self-assurance they need to be the best version of themselves to others.
     I initially did not plan on working in schools, but I’m glad I had this experience. I not only learned how to build and manage a caseload and create treatment plans, but I also felt a real impact working directly with the students and the school system. You have the ability to see real progress and change every day, especially because they are young and their brains are flexible enough to adapt and grow from adversity. I believe CPLA is a solid choice for graduate counseling interns like myself because instead of just one program manager or supervisor to turn to, there is an entire team behind you that is always there to support you. Even when times were tough, I had no less than five or six people I could consult with from the CPLA team if myself or my clients ever needed support.

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Sage Raval

I'm currently a student in Antioch University's MFT program. Some of my passions include cooking, traveling, and connecting with the people I love. A fun fact about me: I went to school in Negril, Jamaica, for grades 3 and 5. I have been an art teacher for 25 years and have a Master's of Art Education. I also moonlighted as an event producer and designer, creating events locally, nationally, and internationally. I hold the most coveted position of mother to Indra (20) and Joaqiun (16). 
     Working with children and families in private practice. Splitting time between Los Angeles and somewhere (TBD). Create a space where I can offer another person to feel seen, supported, and inspired. I wanted to work for CPLA because during my interview with Therese, I felt like I could be my whole self. I felt heard and appreciated. When it was relayed to me that the CPLA modality was to make children feel loved and supported, I knew that I could do that and wanted to be part of an organization that saw the incredible value in the power of love and support. What I love about CPLA is this: I recently had one of the most emotional and important professional experiences with a client. CPLA supported me in a way that I can only describe as matching the tenderness and vulnerability of the moment. I will forever be grateful for having this first experience with the support of CPLA.

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Katelyn Flanagan

I am currently studying for my MFT/PCC degree at Pepperdine University. Some of my biggest passions include exploring multicultural experiences, painting, mental health, cuddling with my cat, and being around the people I love. I also enjoy traveling, especially to places where I can immerse myself in the local community. I am passionate about understanding people's stories, especially across cultural context, and I love anything that helps me continue growing and learning about the world around me. A fun fact about me is that when I was in elementary school, my PE teacher was a retired circus clown so she taught us all about circus arts. I know how to juggle, unicycle, stilts walk, and throw and catch a diabolo. I used to be able to juggle while unicycling too! On the days that I am not on-site, I am working as an Applied Behavioral Analysis behavior technician working with children on the Autism Spectrum.
     In 10 years, I see myself as a licensed MFT/PCC working with children and adolescents, especially within communities navigating complex sociocultural or systemic challenges. I aspire to combine my clinical work with community advocacy, helping make mental health services more accessible and culturally grounded. I hope to change the world by helping children feel genuinely seen, safe, and capable. Many of the kids that I have worked with, especially within the realm of ABA, haven't always been given the space to understand their emotions or feel supported through them. My goal is to help even one child feel empowered, understood, and connected. I have always known I want to work with kids and adolescents and was always curious about what that work could look like within a school environment. I am also intrigued by art therapy and other creativity based modalities and was excited that CPLA really encourages the exploration of those interventions. I love being able to build meaningful connections with all my clients and see the ways that even the smallest therapeutic moments can open an endless amount of possibilities for them. I also really value the supportive community that CPLA provides. I am surrounded by passionate clinicians and supervisors who genuinely care about growth and collaboration.

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Nicolette Shutty

I am a student at Antioch University Los Angeles in their MFT program. In my free time, I love to read, go hiking in the woods, go horseback riding, bake new recipes, create fun crafts, and watch my favorite sitcoms. A fun fact about me is that I am a root beer connoisseur and try every new brand I can get my hands on! I wanted to work for CPLA because they allow their counselors to work in a way that is going to be most beneficial for that child. For some clients child centered play therapy is exactly what they need in that moment. For others CBT or a humanistic/relational approach matches their personality and needs more. At CPLA I wasn't trapped into using a modality that wasn't necessarily best serving the client or working on an agenda that didn't match the client's goals. It's a client centered approach that has truly allowed for some exceptional growth in the children I work with. I love being able to make a difference in my clients’ lives and seeing the positive affects of counseling in real time. Even something small like a moment of understanding or a re-frame of a long-standing cognitive distortion can create such impactful and meaningful change and being able to be a small part of that is truly such a privilege. I also love the incredible insight I’ve been able to gain from my supervisors and the way their guidance has pushed me to grow as a clinician.
      In 10 years I see myself being an LMFT in a thriving private practice where I'm able to work with both children and their parents to get them the support they need in an environment that feels safe, help them build the skills and insight necessary for lasting growth, and empower them to take action to create the change they want to see in their lives. I believe that young children are one of the most vulnerable and most neglected populations that we have. So many disregard the concerns of young children because they view them as unfounded or trivial when, to that child, they are life altering. I hope to change the world by creating a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment when children can develop an authentic sense of self, gain insight into their feelings and what underlying issues are causing them distress, and develop the coping mechanisms necessary to thrive in school, at home, and in relation to others. If I can make even 1 child feel heard, understood, and valued, I know that will create a ripple effect that can create a positive impact for generations to come.

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Chelsea Rodriguez

I am currently a student at Cal State Long Beach. In my free time, I enjoy reading, watching films, spending time with my loved ones, and playing with my dog. A fun fact about myself is that I am currently learning Portuguese as one of my third languages. While I currently do not hold other positions, I worked as a behavior technician, which is where I had firsthand experience working with youth. I also worked as a psychological research assistant and have assisted undergraduate students with their basic needs and wellness.
     In 10 years, I hope to be a licensed clinician and continue to work with children. I also hope to work with various populations, especially transitional age youth and college students at a university counseling center. I hope to change the world by helping young people feel safe, heard, understood, and be a witness to their healing journey. I am dedicated to creating comfortable and inclusive spaces for youth so that they can express their authentic and best selves. I wanted to work at CPLA because I was interested in providing school-based mental health services as a clinician. I also worked with youth prior to starting my graduate program. During my interview, right from the start, I felt welcomed and immediately saw myself being a CPLA counselor. Working with the school community has been such a rewarding and invaluable experience CPLA provides that stands out from other training sites. I love CPLA because of the incredible support they offer to us as starting clinicians. I appreciate the opportunities CPLA gives us to learn and grow while giving us the confidence to work with youth and families. I am very blessed to have begun my career as a counselor at my school site. CPLA’s values of being a partnership, community, and providing holistic care really guided and inspired me when working with clients.

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Derek Mix

I'm currently a student at Saybrook University. I love concerts and going to see live music, museums, traveling, and spending quality time with my family! I'm a huge basketball fan (Go Lakers!). A fun fact about me is that I have been bitten by an Ostrich before. In addition to training at CPLA, I currently work as an ABA program supervisor where I provide supervision and support to ABA therapists and the clients we work with who are primarily children on the Autism Spectrum.
     In 10 years I hope to be actively providing therapy as an LPCC hopefully transitioning into my own private practice. I have plans of also opening up my own hair salon specifically for children and adults with sensory issues. I hope to change the world by holding space even for just a moment for the child to feel seen, heard and listened to. I wanted to work for CPLA because I believed it would provide me the best opportunity to work with the population I felt I was best fit for which was teens and transitional age youth. I love being able to go into developing my skills as a counseling intern with the confidence of knowing that I have full support from my FSP and the other members within CPLA. No matter what comes up during my experience here at CPLA I know I can count on the people around me to guide me in the right direction.

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Elysse Rhodes

I am currently studying at Pepperdine University. I enjoy spending time outdoors, especially by the ocean. I also love staying active through working out, and I make time for quiet moments to pause, whether that’s listening to music or enjoying simple routines that bring balance to my day. a fun fact about me is that I was a competitive cheerleader and tumbler for 10 years! I have five years of experience on the operational side of behavioral health, which has shaped my approach to work and strengthened my appreciation for collaboration, organization, and compassionate, client-centered care.
     In 10 years, I see myself as a licensed clinician working with individuals and families, ideally in settings that prioritizes accessibility, prevention, and early intervention. I also hope to be mentoring newer clinicians and continuing to grow both personally and professionally. I hope to change the world by helping make it a more inclusive, compassionate, and safer place. I hope to touch as many lives as possible by creating spaces where individuals feel understood, supported, and valued. I was drawn to CPLA because of its strong commitment to serving children and families with compassion, integrity, and accessibility. The organization’s values around community-based care and support deeply align with why I chose this field. What I love most about working at CPLA is the supportive and collaborative environment. Being part of a team that values mentorship, growth, and genuine care for both clients and clinicians has made this such a meaningful and affirming experience.

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