Lurdes is a Master of Social Work (MSW) graduate from The University of Texas at Arlington School of Social Work, with an additional certification in Military Social Work. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Drury University, highlighting her strong foundation in understanding human behavior and mental health.

Lurdes has developed exceptional skills in crisis intervention through her role as a Crisis Counselor, where she provided immediate support and guidance to individuals in distress. Her work with survivors of domestic violence further deepened her empathy and refined her nuanced approach to supporting individuals coping with trauma.

In addition to her professional expertise, Lurdes has served in the Army for approximately 10 years, exemplifying her resilience and dedication to service. Her deployment to Afghanistan in 2020, as part of Operation Enduring Freedom, gave her a profound understanding of stress, trauma, and the remarkable capacity for human resilience—perspectives that significantly inform her social work practice.

Lurdes incorporates a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) framework in her approach, emphasizing the importance of tailoring strategies to each client’s unique circumstances. She is deeply committed to providing compassionate, individualized care, prioritizing the creation of a safe and nurturing environment where clients can heal and thrive.