Deborah has been leading social service programs in Northern California for more than 10 years. Deborah received her master’s degree in social work from CSU Long Beach, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude and received an award for outstanding community service to children, youth and families in 2001. She received a bachelor’s degree in social work from CSU Humboldt in 1989. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Practitioner of the Healing Arts as well as a Certified Group Home Administrator and Authorized 5150 Site Coordinator and Designee.She also serves as the Professional Development Coordinator for the National Association of Social Workers in Sacramento County. Deborah joined Stanford Sierra Youth & Families in 2001 and recently began teaching part-time in the University of Phoenix Health and Human Services Department.

“It’s a pleasure to provide leadership in an agency that emphasizes family-centered practices,” she says. “It’s my desire to promote individualized, culturally responsive, flexible and relevant services that empower families to address the many challenges they may be facing. As a Stanford Sierra Youth & Families Clinical Director, I am committed to providing family-centered, community-based services that strengthen family relationships and ensure safety, permanency and optimal outcomes for the families we serve.”