We are thrilled to announce Angelina Palma-Williams, LCSW, as our new Chief Clinical Officer! With her impressive background, unwavering dedication, and passion for driving diversity and inclusion, we are so excited for her to join the executive team.
Angelina’s passion for making a difference in the lives of others began with her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University Long Beach. During her time there, she also served as an executive officer of the Black Student Union. After obtaining her bachelor’s degree, Angelina pursued a Masters of Social Work degree with an emphasis in children, youth, and family at the University of Southern California in 2009. Since then, she has dedicated a remarkable 17 years to community mental health, accumulating 15 years of invaluable experience with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (DMH).
Angelina’s commitment to The Guidance Center’s mission is evident in her extensive involvement within the organization. She began her journey at The Guidance Center (TGC) as an MSW intern and has since held multiple positions. Her progression from a clinical therapist to QA specialist, Clinical Supervisor, and Clinical Program Manager showcases her exceptional expertise in diverse areas of clinical practice. Angelina’s work with The Guidance Center’s Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Committee also illustrates her commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone’s voice is valued.
Now, as Chief Clinical Officer, Angelina steps into a crucial leadership role at The Guidance Center. With her wealth of experience, she brings a unique perspective and passion to delivering clinical services to those in need.
Get to know Angelina by reading her inspiring words below.
How did you learn about The Guidance Center?
When I joined The Guidance Center, it was already a well-established mental health agency with strong community partnerships and known for being the place to gain your clinical hours. I was aware of the mission to provide comprehensive mental health treatment to our community’s most disadvantaged children and their families struggling with mental illness and abuse.
What are some opportunities you are excited about in your new role?
I am looking forward to collaborating with our board of directors, DMH, and other community partners that I have not directly engaged with in my previous roles. I am excited to have a hand in the innovation around our clinical services and in strengthening our culturally affirming clinical practices.
Why are you passionate about the work of The Guidance Center?
I’m drawn to the communities that we service (Long Beach, Compton, and San Pedro) which are similar to the community I grew up in. But what really solidified my wanting to invest my time and growth at The Guidance Center was the innovation of treatment approaches. TGC continues to adapt to and/or anticipate the changes needed to provide quality care. At TGC we listen to the clients we serve, we collaborate with clinical staff, and we evaluate our approaches to ensure that services and treatment are clinically and culturally appropriate to meet the needs of the community. Service to others is a personal value that I hold. A guiding principle I have witnessed at The Guidance Center is service to the community. I am so very proud to be part of an agency with such a service focused and collaborative approach on all levels of operation.