Monica graduated from USD, with a Master’s degree in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling. She completed her practicum at the Psychiatric Hospital; Alvarado Parkway Institute (API). She is currently an associate professional clinical counselor on both the clinic and research programs at CHEAR. She has over 9 years of experience at UCSD aiding adults and families create a healthier lifestyle through novel behavioral weight management as part of current research. As an associate, Monica has been working in various clinical settings such as private practice, school counseling (college) and inpatient facilities. She is bilingual/bicultural and provides counseling services in both English and Spanish. In her spare time, Monica volunteers at her local library facilitating interactive bilingual story-time for babies and toddlers; including her 2 year old daughter.