Abigail Fuentes, Social Work Intern

“I have had many experiences working with children, adolescents, and adults from diverse  backgrounds through a variety of settings such as children’s museums, classrooms, and social agencies. This exposure has taught me the value in recognizing and appreciating diversity, and I believe that makes our community abundant and kinder. Regardless of age, cultural background, or complex experiences, we all have a desire to feel connected. I firmly believe that every individual is deserving of a space where they feel safe, held, and celebrated. Through safe relationships, we find an opportunity to learn more about ourselves, and each other. As a clinician in training, I aim to approach my work with clients in a way that is empathic, collaborative, and honoring of lived experience”.

Abby is a student at Erikson Institute where she is pursuing her Master’s of Social Work with a concentration in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health. She received her Bachelor’s of Science in Family & Consumer Sciences from Bradley University. Her most recent internship was with the agency LIFT-Chicago, where she worked collaboratively with adults to support their goals in social, emotional, and financial wellness. Through this experience, she grew fond of the power of relationships. She aims to approach work with clients through a lens that is relational, strengths-based, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed. As a queer, Latinx person, she is passionate about identity exploration and diverse family dynamics.