Meet The CPLA Team
We are committed to bringing counseling and support to all underserved communities so that every student has the best possible chance for emotional well-being and a promising future.
Do What You Love, and Love What You Do.
Do What You Love, and Love What You Do.
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Therese Funk Executive Director, & Co-FounderFive years ago, Therese co-founded CPLA with her long-time colleague, Monica Dessert after both working for Outreach Concern. Therese worked for Outreach Concern for around a decade. She received her Bachelors degree in Psychology from UCLA, her Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Cal Grad Institute, AND an MBA from USC. Therese is on the Board of St.Michael's School, one our partner schools, and Vision of Hope. She is also one of the founding members of EveryChild Foundation.
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Monica DessertClinical Director, & Co-FounderMonica Taylor Dessert co-founded and serves as the Clinical Director of Counseling Partners of Los Angeles. She received her Masters in Counseling from California State University, Northridge and Bachelors in Psychology and Economics from University of California, Los Angeles. A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years experience working with children and families in a school setting, Monica brings a passion and enthusiasm for making a difference in children’s lives.
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Sheila MikailField DirectorSheila Mikail began working with CPLA in 2013. She began as a counselor at Junipero Serra High School and moved into the Field Director position in 2015. Sheila received her Bachelor's in Sociology from UCLA and her Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of La Verne. In addition to Sheila's work with CPLA, she has worked at the University Counseling Center in La Verne, and for Jewish Family Service. She also has a background in working for families who have children with Autism as a Behavioral Therapist. As Field Director, Sheila makes herself available to the counselors for any and all situations. She loves to help each counselor grow in their confidence and experience. She continuously dedicates her time to ensure the success, support and safety of each student and school community.
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Jen VitanzaField SupervisorJen began working with CPLA in January of 2016. She began as a counselor at St. Genevieve Elementary and High Schools; and moved into the Field Supervisor position in 2018. Jen received her Bachelor's in Psychology and her Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Northridge. In addition to her work with CPLA, she has worked at the Mitchell Family Counseling Center at CSUN, and in a private practice setting at Social Coaching Club where she works with children, teens and families. As a Field Supervisor, Jen provides support and mentorship to counselors, as well as assists them through crises. She is committed to the professional growth and progress of each counselor and dedicates her time to ensure a safe and thriving school community.
jen@counselingpartnersofla.org
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Victoria WahbahSpecial Initiatives & Programs AssociateVictoria joined the CPLA team in June 2016. She currently is pursuing her undergraduate degree at UCLA in Sociology with a minor in Hebrew & Jewish Studies. She has a background as a Sunday School teacher for junior high and high school aged students. Previously, she has served as a Leader in Training Camp Counselor for the City of La Mirada in the Los Angeles County-wide program "Parks Make Life Better." As our Administrative Intern, Victoria has created the Kindness Movement, which encourages and fosters an empathetic, caring community in our schools and in their homes. She hopes to pursue a Master in Social Welfare and become a Social Worker for the County of Los Angeles.
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Our Board
The community leaders that serve on our Board of Directors are volunteers that lend their time and expertise to guide our organization responsibly and effectively. Our board is made up of leaders from the private, non-profit and public sectors:
Ms. Andrea Curthoys
Mrs. Monica Taylor Dessert
Ms. Therese Funk
Ms. Yoseline Lopez-Marroquin
Mrs. Marcy Woodhull Polhemus
Bishop David O’Connell is a special advisor to CPLA
Ms. Andrea Curthoys
Mrs. Monica Taylor Dessert
Ms. Therese Funk
Ms. Yoseline Lopez-Marroquin
Mrs. Marcy Woodhull Polhemus
Bishop David O’Connell is a special advisor to CPLA
Program Staff
The CPLA program includes volunteer Masters-level trainees and post-graduate interns working under the close supervision of licensed therapists. All of the CPLA staff are experienced counselors and have undergone a thorough interview and screening process. Counselors attend intensive training prior to their school placements and additional monthly trainings throughout the school year. CPLA believes that consistent oversight and strong supervision of counselors are critical components in achieving success with the students we serve and to best support the training and growth of our counselors.