About Vania
Hi there, I’m Vania, a Clinical Social Worker Intern (CSW-Intern). I’m part of a blended military family—my partner served 20 years in the Air Force—and I work closely with veterans, active military, and military families. I deeply respect the stories, transitions, and resilience that come with military life. It’s a huge part of who I am, and I love holding space for people navigating that journey!
Before becoming a therapist, I worked in casino service and hospitality. These roles gave me a front-row seat to human behavior—the joy, the loss, the loneliness, the coping. I saw people seeking connection – trying to feel something or trying to escape something. It broke my heart and lit a fire in me. I became passionate about helping people move out of that place of isolation and into connection, hope, and healing. Especially with solo gambling—like apps and local gaming bars—the link to loneliness is so strong. I understand both sides: casinos can be fun and social, but I’ve also been privy to a darker undercurrent of disconnection, late nights, and alcohol. I see it. And I care deeply!
When I’m not in session, I’m probably hiking, camping, or just spending my time outdoors. I’ve been to every national park on the west side of the country, all of the state parks in Nevada (yes, you read that right every single one!), most in Utah, and now I am working through California! Even with all of that travel, Nevada’s still my favorite, though. There is something about the untouched beauty here; the petroglyphs, the ability to walk right up to ancient history—it’s stunning!
How I Help
I show up as myself—no fake therapist voice, no weirdly formal energy. Just me, being real with you. I think therapy should feel like a conversation, not an interview. I like to take a little time getting to know you before we dive deep. I want to build a relationship with you, not just dig into the tough stuff right away. We go at your pace. We’re people first, right?
I use a strength-based perspective and motivational interviewing in my work. I believe every single person has strengths, resources, and competencies—yes, even if it doesn’t feel like it right now. I help you spot what’s already working in your life and figure out how to use that to create change. Your environment matters, too. We’re not just talking about this moment in therapy—we’re looking at the bigger picture of your life.
If you’ve experienced trauma, know this: trauma doesn’t define you. It cracks things open, yes, but healing happens in those cracks. Resiliency grows there. Just because something broke doesn’t mean it can’t come back together—sometimes even stronger than before. And if all you can manage right now is reducing a behavior instead of stopping it altogether? That’s still forward movement. Progress is progress!
More About Vania
Education
Bachelor in International Studies and Spanish, Minor in French – Saint Louis University – 2007
Master of Social Work – University of Nevada, Las Vegas – 2025
credentials
Clinical Social Worker – Intern (CSW-Intern)