Carmen Donato

About Carmen Donato

Carmen Donato is a proud graduate of California State University, Dominguez Hills where she obtained a Master’s of Social Work and Bachelor’s in Human Services, Mental Health Recovery. During her graduate studies, she was a recipient of the UsCC Award under LACDMH, with commitment to working with under-served and unserved populations (LGBTQIA+, MIST/AOT, FSP-Forensic, Dual Diagnosed). Currently she is a Private Practice Therapist with Change Within Reach. She has experience working as a FSP Therapist at Masada Homes in Norwalk, CA, working with Adult and TAY clientele. Mrs. Abitia has completed field training at Metropolitan State Hospital and St. John\'s Well Child.Prior to attending CSUDH, she became a Certified Addictions Treatment Counselor through Long Beach City College’s accredited credentialing program, where she worked in substance use treatment for over 10 years on macro and micro levels. She also loves to give back to her ministry and volunteers with most self-help groups (like chemical dependency/grief recovery) and sings in the worship team. Carmen loves pit bulls and reading Christian Counseling books. Carmen is highly skilled office administrator with an outstanding background in customer service, counseling, and staff training; excellent interpersonal and organizational skills; natural leader with ability to develop strong relationships with management, staff and the general public to ensure positive outcomes; skilled in analyzing client needs with effective conflict-resolution techniques; dynamic and professional attitude under minimal supervision.Guest Speaker-Substance Abuse and Social Work programs at community colleges and universities. Prepare curriculum and visual materials related to clinical work experience and solid knowledge of relevant courses and present to students exploring the field of human services and related fields. Provide a diverse, respectful, and open minded environment for students to learn and engage students interactively.Co-Facilitator/Counselor-Co-Facilitate a Chemical Recovery group in a natural support setting. Prepare curriculum and materials to teach in groups as well as provide interactive communication among-st group members. Provide clear instructions and management, as well as established respectful and inclusive group environments to help members learn and grow.

Experience

1. Mental Health Therapist

   Grow Therapy

   Apr 2025 — Present · CA, US

Education

• California State University-Dominguez Hills

  Bachelor’s Degree, Human Services, Mental Health

  2014 — 2016

• California State University-Dominguez Hills

  Master’s Degree, Social Work

  2016 — 2018

• Long Beach City College

  Associate’s Degree, Human Services, Alcohol & Drug Studies

  2008 — 2012