Where you Belong: Finding Purpose on Unconventional Paths in Mental Health Careers
Mark your calendars for an exciting panel on Feb. 27, as we discuss the journey of navigating professional careers beyond your degree in social work and other mental health-related fields. Our panelists will be chatting about the unconventional pathways they have taken in their respective fields and sharing firsthand experiences and insights. They will also be sharing personal stories of finding a sense of belonging and purpose in their professional journeys. Enjoy complimentary boba tea, drinks, and snacks from local small business Cha Community. Join us for an afternoon filled with networking and engaging conversation. Sponsored by Social Work, Psychology and Religion. RSVP HERE!
2.27.24 | 3:30 - 5 p.m.
Mood Library Schumacher Commons
Meet our Panelists
Jaja Chen, LCSW-S is a licensed clinical social worker-supervisor and EMDRIA Approved Consultant in private practice. As the co-owner of Cha Community and founder and Board Chair of Asian Leaders Network (ALN), Jaja draws on her unique background as a Third Culture Kid (TCK) and a 2nd generation Taiwanese American to co-create community in Waco, TX through boba tea cafe entrepreneurship and non-profit service. Passionate about breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health, Jaja is particularly dedicated to advocating for immigrant and Asian American communities. Her commitment stems from being the oldest daughter of a Taiwanese immigrant family, being the first in her family to pursue therapy, and having lived for half her childhood in Taiwan and China. Beyond her professional endeavors, Jaja finds joy in traveling with her spouse Devin Li, gardening, spending time with friends, supporting local small businesses, and playing with her English Bulldogs Momo and Mimi.
Soo Jin Lee, LMFT is a licensed marriage and family therapist, executive director of Yellow Chair Collective, cofounder of Entwine Community, and co-author of ‘Where I Belong: Healing Trauma and Embracing Asian American Identity’. Soo Jin's experiences as an undocumented Asian immigrant have significantly shaped her understanding and approach to mental health care, particularly in recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by similar communities. Her background in fine arts allows her to integrate creativity into healing and wellness practices. This blend of artistic insight and therapeutic expertise is evident in her work with both individuals and groups, where she emphasizes holistic care. When Soo Jin is not actively teaching and advocating for the mental health of underserved communities, she can often be found hiking or traveling. These activities allow her to connect with nature and fulfill her innermost dreams, providing a balance to her professional endeavors.
Sol Bautista draws strength from her four decades of life as a remarkably resilient individual. Born and raised in Guadalajara, Jalisco, México, she was nurtured in an environment rich with storytellers, vibrant art, delectable cuisine, contagious laughter, and, above all, a profound love for others. Her intimate connection with nature stems from her experiences working closely with various indigenous communities. Sol possesses a unique perspective on the imperative role of diversity. A Mexican Immigrant and a graduate in Psychology from ITESO, a Jesuit University in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Sol embarked on a journey to further enrich her knowledge by attending classes at Loyola University of Chicago to sharpen her English language skills. For 12 impactful years, she served as an educator in the state of Texas, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those she touched. Currently, Sol holds the esteemed position of Director of Professional Development and Outreach at Creative Waco, a role she has passionately embraced for the past year and a half. In this capacity, she seamlessly integrates her lived experiences as the driving force behind her endeavors. Sol ardently believes in the transformative power of a growth mindset and unwavering curiosity, qualities that propel her as a dedicated global citizen. Sol Bautista stands as a testament to the fusion of diverse backgrounds and perspectives, illustrating the profound impact one individual can have on the world.
Madi Snow-Gould is a graduate of the Baylor School of Social Work. Her professional interests include community organizing around disability justice issues and the inclusion of disabled people in spiritual communities. She spent time as a social work intern at the Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities as a caretaker at Camp Barnabas, and has worked informally as an advocate and organizer during her time in Waco. Lately, she has been recuperating from a few major health events by creating as a fiber artist and reading lots of good books.