Jay is a Licensed Social Worker who graduated in 2022 with a Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University of Chicago. Prior to his career in mental health, he served as an Army medic, working in the hospital field and gaining first-hand experience with individuals struggling with PTSD and its effects on their families. This experience sparked his interest in providing support and lending an ear to those in need, following his discharge from the Army. During his undergraduate psychology program, he began volunteering for Youth Outlook, where he discovered his passion for working with LGBTQ+ Youth and addressing the crucial need for mentorship, advocacy, and support.

Throughout his MSW program, Jay continued his work with Youth Outlook and engaged in private practice, focusing on non-binary and queer young adults. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, he has also presented at conferences on LGBTQ+ adolescents' mental health issues. Following graduation, Jay joined a private clinical practice specializing in children and adolescents, working with youth aged 5-18 facing a variety of mood disorders, generalized and social anxiety, and ADHD.

Seeking to enhance his clinical skills, Jay then transitioned to an intensive outpatient program, where he worked with adolescents and families, teaching DBT curriculum to improve familial dynamics and quality of life. In this role, he provided structured interventions for adolescents experiencing suicidal ideation, self-injurious behavior, substance use, eating disorders, conduct disorders, and various mental health conditions.

Jay utilizes a combination of play, art, talk therapy, and DBT techniques to assist children and adolescents in finding balance, stability, mindfulness, and safety in their lives. He believes in tailoring treatment to each individual's needs, regardless of the chosen modality. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Jay identifies as queer and latinx, and is dedicated to meeting the needs of BIPOC LGBTQ+ youth, offering a safe space and additional resource for those seeking help. Jay is thrilled to provide our OW|PW team an openly proud trans therapist who wants to fill in the gap with trans-affirming care in the burbs.

"I want to preface that although this bio presents me in a professional light (which I am), I'm also eager to share the best dad joke, showcase my Uno skills, rock my crocs, and sit alongside your youth to explore the coolest animal facts and collaborate on achieving their goals."