President's Message — Nikki Gabriel, LMFT

Thank You, SFV-CAMFT!

Amazingly enough, a second year of serving as your chapter president has now flown by, and we are beginning to look ahead to a new year. Being an active part of SFV-CAMFT has added much needed community and support to my life and professional career. It was a challenge this year to be a new Mom and board president, however, as always I found the connection and support from our chapter actually made my life better. For the first time in my adult life I was without a full time job (outside of motherhood), and without the chapter business to help keep me grounded I know this year would have been much more difficult.

When I first joined the chapter in 2012, I felt like an imposter in this profession. I was switching careers from the nonprofit world, and did not have confidence or feel like I fit in. Going to chapter meetings was scary and I was sure everyone could see right through me and know I did not belong there. Coming from the background of volunteerism, I did what I know, I offered to help. And to be honest, it took a while to get anyone to take me up on that offer, but I kept on until I was about ready to give up. Finally, someone asked me to join the bylaws committee and I did. After that I was asked to help in other ways and I continued to say yes to each opportunity. It has proven to be well worth my time and effort as I have met so many amazing and supportive therapists over the last decade. I can now walk into a chapter meeting and feel comfortable and excited to be there among friends.

My reason for sharing this story is because I actually hope to inspire other members to volunteer with the chapter. Please believe me that you do not have to get as involved as I have over the years. The chapter needs support from members in roles of all sizes in order to maintain our success. And of course from that comes many benefits to the volunteer as well. In addition to overcoming imposter syndrome as was my story, it is also a way to connect, meet more therapists, and build name recognition within our chapter and community.

This last year was as successful as it was because of the many people who contribute to the chapter and give of their time and talent. I want to thank all the 2022 chapter members that volunteered this year. Below is as comprehensive list as I was able to compile. If anyone or any volunteer role is missed please accept my apologies in advance.

2022 Chapter Volunteers

Nikki Gabriel is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist taking a short break from her practice to take on the role of new Mom. She assists teens and adults in learning to manage anger, anxiety, depression, and confidence issues by utilizing interventions from an eclectic background. She enjoys helping people discover new ways to solve problems, develop healthier behavior patterns, and improve communication skills. Nikki can be reached at 818-473-0088 or nikkigabrielmft@gmail.com.