Before joining Pasadena Villa in 2013, Desiree worked in a variety of mental health settings including private practice with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and the geriatric population. While at Pasadena Villa she has held the position of a psychotherapist, lead psychotherapist and associate program manager of the transitional living and learning center. Desiree is a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Nationally Board Certified Counselor as well as a Qualified Supervisor for Registered Mental Health Counselor Interns in the state of Florida. Desiree received her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida. With over 13 years of experience in the field of mental health, she has teaching and research experience in which she has published and presented on her research findings.
She has also facilitated groups and conducted individual psychotherapy in partial hospitalization programs as well as intensive outpatient programs. Additionally, as a Clinical Director for a foster care agency, Desiree was actively involved in the development of their clinical program. She is a Military and Family Life Consultant and Child Youth Specialist who periodically works with service men and women and their families. Desiree is also a member of the Association of Play Therapy, Central Florida Chapter and the University of Central Florida Alumni Association.