Root | The Caring Heart/Grounding Work of a Social Worker

Tap in and vibe with me as I speak Norma C. Onate, an experienced California social worker and Mental Health Clinical Supervisor with a lifelong dedication to supporting the wellbeing of children and families. Motivated since childhood by a deep sensitivity to the suffering of others—especially young people—Norma pursued her education with a clear and unwavering vision: to become a therapist committed to promoting healing, resilience, and positive change.

Twenty-seven years later, Norma has developed extensive expertise across child welfare and behavioral health. Herprofessional background includes significant work alongside Child Protective Services, as well as extensive involvement in foster and kinship adoptions.

During this episode, you will feel Norma's heart and love of being of service as she shares her motivation, inspiration, and passion for social work. She walks us through a grounding exercise to help lessen anxiety; speaks on navigating relationships with children and their parents/guardians; accounts the social effects of the Covid pandemic on the youth because of sheltering in place and being homeschooled, and so much more.

Tune in. 

***BONUS***

Norma graciously shared the following referral sources for mental health services that can be accessed nationwide:

Immediate Crisis & Support Hotlines

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for confidential support, 24/7.
• The Crisis Text Line: Text "HOME" to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor over SMS.
• NAMI HelpLine: Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or text "NAMI" to 62640 for free one-on-one emotional support and resource referrals ⁠NAMI HelpLine⁠. 

Nationwide Treatment Locators

• FindTreatment.gov: Use the SAMHSA Treatment Locator to find mental health facilities, substance use treatment, and telehealth providers across the U.S. 
• Mental Health America (MHA): Access MHA’s affiliate network and screening tools at ⁠Mental Health America⁠ to find local, community-based care. 

The Trevor Project is the leading nationwide organization providing 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention services specifically for LGBTQ+ young people under the age of 25.

If you or someone you know needs support, you can connect with a trained counselor completely free, confidentially, and anonymously: 

Contact the Trevor Project Lifeline

• Call: ⁠1-866-488-7386⁠
• Text: Text START to 678-678
• Online Chat: Available directly on ⁠The Trevor Project Get Help Page⁠.