Welcome Frank!
We’re so excited to welcome Frank Peña to the Gather & Grow Family!
Frank is a San José State University Alum and writes:
I am thrilled to join the Gather and Grow OC community, as it embodies the inclusive and affirming approach to mental health care that I deeply value. With over a decade of experience working with LGBTQ+ youth and young adults, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of culturally competent and intersectional care.
My academic journey, from earning an Associate of Arts in Sociology at DeAnza Community College, to a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a focus on Women and Gender Studies at San José State University, and culminating in a Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California, has equipped me with a robust foundation to serve diverse populations.
Throughout my career, I have been committed to providing gender-affirming therapy and supporting clients through their unique journeys. My work has involved conducting comprehensive LGBTQ training programs, facilitating support groups, and managing clinical referrals. I have also had the privilege of contributing to research on the resilience of transgender youth of color and the experiences of nonbinary college students, with publications in esteemed journals such as *LGBTQ+ Family: An Interdisciplinary Journal* and the *Journal of Diversity in Higher Education*.
I’m proud to say that some of my work has been published and can be viewed here:
Joining Gather and Grow OC is an exciting opportunity to further my dedication to advocating for marginalized communities. I am eager to collaborate with a team that prioritizes empathy, expertise, and the holistic well-being of our clients. Together, we can create a supportive and empowering environment for all who seek our services.
Warmly,
Frank Peña
We’re so excited to have Frank on the team! Read more about him practice HERE.