I recently had the opportunity to sit and talk with one of our newest hires, Jamee Pollard. Jamee is a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate who is kind and vibrant. She specializes in helping adults suffering from trauma, anxiety, OCD, and depression.

What made you decide to go into Social Work?
I’ve always been interested in listening to the stories that make us human. The story of someone’s happiness, heartbreak, pain, embarrassment and perseverance. I realized that people often believe their story makes them undeserving of feeling seen, heard or valued… but I respectfully disagreed. And that’s why I’m here.

Please tell us about your experience prior to coming to Chrysalis?
I worked with individuals and groups in intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization settings. I specialized in treating suicidal thoughts, complex trauma, borderline personality disorder, and schizophrenia. I received a lot of training in dialectical behavior therapy, and its non-judgmental, acceptance-based philosophy really resonated with me.

What would you like your clients to know prior to their first session with you? 
They can expect a trauma-informed approach, where the therapeutic relationship is built through safety, collaboration, and transparency. I hold the belief that we all have the ability to change our lives if we feel empowered and supported.

What did you think you were going to be when you grew up and how does it compare to your current career at Chrysalis? 
I wanted to be a lawyer! It’s pretty different from what I’m doing now. However, in both positions your job is to help people navigate tough situations. there is also a social justice piece that is an important feature in both fields.

Would you rather live in a treehouse or houseboat and why? 
Houseboat! Because I could travel up and down the coast without having to pay for hotels.