PROVEEDORES

La Dra. Sabrina Cooley asistió primero a la Universidad de Cornell para su licenciatura antes de continuar en la Universidad Estatal de Ohio en la facultad de medicina. La Dra. Cooley completó su residencia en medicina familiar en Kaiser Permanente, y también recibió un certificado en Liderazgo y Educación en Medicina Académica. La Dra. Cooley sirvió durante cuatro años en la Marina de los Estados Unidos como oficial médico, durante un año en el Hospital Psiquiátrico del Condado de San Diego, y durante cuatro años en la sala de urgencias con MemorialCare Medical Group antes de ascender a directora médica de ShareOurselves Community Health Center.

Ahora aporta su riqueza en conocimientos y experiencia a Celebrating Life Community Health Center, donde persigue su pasión de brindar atención integral (física, emocional, espiritual) a las comunidades menos favorecidas. La Dra. Cooley es miembro de la Academia Americana de Médicos de Medicina Familiar (AAFP) y está certificada en medicina familiar. Ella disfruta de las artes, Zumba, paddleboarding, y pasar su tiempo libre con sus seres queridos y sus mascotas.

Dr. Lopez earned her Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) degree from Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harrogate, Tennessee, in 2015.  Dr. Lopez completed her medical residency in family practice at Glendale Adventist Medical Center in 2018. She worked as a Medical Director at Mountain View Community Center, an FQHC in Kern County, from 2018 to January 2022.  Dr. Lopez made CLCHC her home as of February 2022, and speaks Korean and English.

Los Angeles, CA. Desde entonces ha acumulado años de experiencia en atención ambulatoria y salud familiar, y centra sus esfuerzos en atender a los más desfavorecidos. La Dra. López también tiene experiencia en cuidados intensivos hospitalarios, incluyendo medicina pediátrica y de adultos.

Dr. Samir Ahmad is American board-certified in Internal Medicine with Fellowship in Geriatric Medicine with over 22 years of experience at reputed medical centers. Dr. Ahmad trained in Internal Medicine at the Capital Health regional Medical Center in Trenton, New Jersey, and Geriatric Medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch – Galveston.

Dr. Ahmad has held a faculty position as Clinical Assistant Professor at University of Texas Medical Branch – Galveston as Director of Hospitalist for the Rapid Decision Unit, where he refined his expertise and fostered innovation in patient care.

Dr. Ahmad moved to California in 2019 and worked as an Outpatient care Internist at various reputed healthcare entities and Community Care Clinics, bringing his wealth of experience and unwavering dedication by providing expertise to various healthcare entities, as driven by his passion for comprehensive care.

Dr. Samir Ahmad joined CLCHC in 2023 as Director of the Primary Care Department. His commitment to providing effective, safe, and compassionate healthcare continues to shape his practice. Dr. Ahmad speaks speaks English, Arabic, Bulgarian, and medical Spanish.

Dr. Siamak Nabili comes to us as a dual board certified physician in Internal Medicine as well as Hospice and Palliative Care Medicine. He earned his medical degree from St. George’s University and completed his residency training at Alameda Medical Center in Oakland in 2004. In pursuit of a broader understanding of healthcare, he had already obtained a Master of Public Health from UCLA in 1996. With nearly two decades as a hospitalist, Dr. Nabili has vast experience taking care of acutely ill hospitalized patients.  Since 2010, he has served as a hospice and palliative care medical director providing compassionate care for patients with terminal diseases.  Dr. Nabili speaks fluently in English and Farsi, and comfortably in medical Spanish.  Throughout his career, he has prioritized patient advocacy, consistently demonstrating a genuine dedication to improving the lives of those he serves, making him a respected and valued member of the medical community. Dr. Nabili has joined CLCHC in 2023.

Dr. Sevitlana Safaei has been practicing medicine for more than 16 years. Her choice to pursue this profession was solidified many years earlier. As a child, she was very close to her grandmother and watched her through many ailments. These were defining moments for Dr. Safaei as she promised her grandmother that she would become a physician and help others to maximize their quality of life and provide the best care possible.

Dr. Safaei takes pride in her studies and journey in the medical field. She graduated with a degree in nursing which provided the opportunity to learn the art of active listening, genuine compassion, bedside manner, and a sense of service. She further continued her medical studies in graduate school to become a physician. Dr. Safaei graduated from Ross University School of Medicine. She completed Internal Medicine Internship at New York Medical College and completed Internal Medicine Residency at Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara, a teaching affiliate of Stanford University. In addition, she completed independent studies in nutritional and food science, clinical homeopathy, and Traditional Chinese Medicine for physicians through academy of research, an affiliate of University of California, Irvine, and University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine.

Dr. Safaei provides her patients comprehensive care; she treats the whole body with an integrative approach to health through creativity and individuality. She believes in practicing medicine with sound medical knowledge, evidence-based medicine, and educating and empowering patients to make the best medical decisions for themselves.

Dr. Safaei is fluent in Farsi, English, and speaks medical Spanish. She enjoys cooking clean and fresh foods, practicing yoga, traveling, and dancing.

Dr. Shahla Heshmati, MD is a Board Certified pediatrician with over 25 years of extensive experience in pediatric and adolescent care. Dr. Heshmati received her Medical Doctor degree from Shahid Chamran University, Iran. She is also a graduate of Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center, in Chicago, where she conducted her training in pediatrics. She is both a mother and a passionate pediatrician.

Dr. Heshmati believes very strongly in the quality of care that every child should receive. She believes that her patients, as well as their parents, should always feel that they have been listened to and that their problems have been addressed with both skill and compassion. She wants to be sure that her patients will have easy access to the pediatrician when they have questions or need to be seen.

Dr. Heshmati joined Celebrating Life Community Health Center in 2023, and she is fluent in English and Farsi.

Nacido en Alejandría, Egipto, el Dr. Sidhom se graduó en la Universidad de Alejandría en 1977 y se trasladó a Long Beach, California, en 1984. Tras completar su residencia en Pediatría, el Dr. Sidhom se dedicó a la práctica privada en Visalia, California. En la actualidad, el Dr. Sidhom es un pediatra general certificado por la Junta con experiencia especializada en asma y rinitis alérgica. El Dr. Sidhom es un orgulloso esposo y padre de dos hijos, y en su tiempo libre disfruta jugando al bridge, viajando o descansando en la playa con su familia.

Aida Medawar is a Family Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about patient care. She has worked at HOAG Orthopedic Institute as a bedside registered Nurse assisting patients during their post operative phase of recovery following total joint replacement and complex spine surgeries. Aida also worked at Cal. Rehab & Sports Therapy in Anaheim as a Physical Therapist Aide. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences at Cal. State Fullerton and Completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Azusa Pacific University. She is devoted to providing comprehensive care for patients which is why she later pursued her Master of Science in Nursing and chose to specialize in family Medicine.

In her spare time, Aida enjoys spending time with her friends and family. She also enjoys going to amusement parks, traveling, and going hiking with her dog.

Dr. Hanna Zameni graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a Family Nurse Practitioner’s Master’s degree, and is a current doctorate candidate for nursing practice. She is certified with ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) for Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Nurse Executive (NE-BC). Dr. Zameni has a background in community medicine, nursing management, rheumatology, and post-surgical care. She is currently a contributing member of the Quality Improvement Team, and has over ten years of experience working in healthcare. She joined CLCHC in 2020, and speaks Korean and English.

Helen Hughes’ journey began in a small town, where she witnessed firsthand the impact of accessible healthcare on individuals and families. From a young age, she harbored a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Her educational path reflects her dedication to nursing and healthcare. Helen earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a reputable university, where she excelled academically and demonstrated a natural aptitude for clinical practice. Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a commitment to lifelong learning, she pursued a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner. Helen then went on to pursue her Doctor of Nurse Practitioner (DNP) degree to reflect her commitment to advancing her practice and making a broader impact in healthcare. With a focus on evidence-based practice, healthcare leadership, and advanced clinical skills, the DNP program perfectly aligned with Helen’s professional goals.

Helen has embraced diverse opportunities to expand her knowledge and skills throughout her career. She has worked in various settings including community clinics, hospitals, and private practices, encountering a broad spectrum of patient needs and healthcare challenges. Each experience has enriched her clinical acumen and reinforced her commitment to patient-centered care. Helen is bilingual in English and Vietnamese.

Lisa earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Loma Linda University in 2019. She was inspired by her mother, who works as a Registered Nurse, and her volunteer experience working with the American Red Cross serving active-duty soldiers at an Army hospital in Georgia, to pursue a career in nursing. While working full-time as a nurse in a surgical-telemetry unit during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lisa felt compelled to further her knowledge and growth in the field in order to be more involved in managing the care of her patients. Lisa took a new job as a full-time registered nurse in the cardiac/cardiothoracic intensive care unit, simultaneously returning to Loma Linda University to enroll full-time in the DNP/FNP program in 2020. Lisa graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice with honors in 2024 and is dedicated to her Advanced Practice Registered Nurse role as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Lisa is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to her patients, and strives to ensure that the best evidence-based practice is used. She is fluent in both English and Korean, and joined Celebrating Life Community Health Center in 2024.

Earl Trinidad is an accomplished Family Nurse Practitioner with a diverse background spanning over two decades in healthcare. Earl has demonstrated expertise across various settings, including acute care, primary care, and palliative care. With a Master of Science in Nursing from California Baptist University, Earl’s career trajectory showcases a commitment to serving communities in need, evident from his extensive experience with organizations such as Share Our Selves, Elite Hospitalists, and Vitas Healthcare. Throughout his tenure, Earl has excelled in managing acute and chronic illnesses, promoting wellness, and providing compassionate care to diverse patient populations.

Earl’s proficiency extends beyond clinical practice, as evidenced by his involvement in disaster relief efforts, volunteer nursing, and leadership roles within community organizations like Saddleback Church. Earl’s dedication to his profession is underscored by his continuous pursuit of knowledge and professional development, as seen through his active memberships in professional associations and his commitment to maintaining certifications in ACLS and BLS.

In addition to his clinical acumen, Earl possesses strong interpersonal skills and a deep-rooted passion for holistic patient care. His comprehensive approach to healthcare, coupled with his unwavering dedication to improving patient outcomes, positions him as a valuable asset in any healthcare setting. As Earl continues to make meaningful contributions to the field of nursing, his unwavering commitment to excellence and compassion remains steadfast, embodying the true essence of a healthcare professional dedicated to serving others.

Nisa Joorabchi is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and wellness educator with an interest in community health, prevention, and integrative medicine. She speaks four languages, including French, Farsi, English, and fluent medical Spanish. Due to her work experience in various urban communities, Nisa has firsthand knowledge about the interconnectedness of societal struggles and impaired health outcomes on the physical, mental, and emotional levels. Through prevention, wellness education, patient partnership, and the use of evidence-based practices, she seeks to nurture health and wholeness in the communities she works in.

Nisa has worked with a diverse array of particular populations including immigrant communities, the LGBTQ community, youth, homeless, and underserved communities. She also has extensive volunteer experience including work with art-based projects, health and wellness education projects, social change initiatives, political refugee supportive services, homeless shelters, hospitals, and community clinics.

Alec Bradbury graduated from Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee with a Master of Science in Nursing and is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Alec spent two years providing high-quality primary care to the underserved populations of Marin County in the San Francisco Bay Area. He has a background in utilizing Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) to aid in the recovery of those battling addiction, treating unhoused clients as the medical provider on a street medicine mobile unit, as well as coordinating cohesive care for patients with complex comorbidities. He is passionate about providing judgement-free, respectful, and equitable care for the underserved populations of our community and for educating clients about holistic, behavioral, and lifestyle measures to improve their well-being. 

Ms. Donna Ball, NP, began her career as Family Nurse Practitioner in December o 1978, and has been practicing ever since. Ms. Ball’s first job as a Nurse Practitioner was at Kaiser Permanente Internal Medicine Clinic in Norwalk, where she stayed for six years. She then spent 19 years working at Recovery Solutions of Santa Ana under Dr. Michael Mumford, specializing in addiction medicine, before going on to work at Sano Medical (now CLCHC-Sano). Ms. Ball is proud to have worked at Sano for 18 years under the guidance of Dr. James Stirbl serving the communities of Costa Mesa and Santa Ana, California. Ms. Ball joined Celebrating Life Community Health Center in 2023 and looks forward to working with us for many years to come.

Eveline Jho, MSN, APRN, CPNP-PC, CPN, is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. With a Master of Science in Nursing from California State University, Long Beach, Evelyn brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice. Her extensive clinical experience includes placements in primary care, specialty care, and community health settings, where she has provided comprehensive care to children of all ages.

Prior to becoming a Nurse Practitioner, Evelyn honed her skills as a Registered Nurse at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital in Long Beach. Outside of her professional roles, Evelyn is deeply engaged in volunteer work, including mentoring college students interested in nursing and participating in medical missions to underserved communities.

Meinrado Cedeno, CPNP-PC, emigró de Filipinas con sólo dieciséis años. Desde muy temprana edad encontró una pasión por asegurar la salud y el bienestar de los demás. Dedicado a su pasión, el Sr. Cedeno obtuvo su maestría en Ciencias en Enfermería en la Universidad Estatal de California, Long Beach. Tras adquirir diez años de experiencia en enfermería pediátrica, Meinrado continuó avanzando en su carrera y se convirtió en un enfermero pediátrico.

El Sr. Cedeno valora la colaboración y asociación respetuosa con las familias y se compromete a honrar las diversidades de las familias de todos los orígenes raciales, étnicos, religiosos, culturales y socioeconómicos. En su tiempo libre, al Sr. Cedeno le encanta explorar nuevos restaurantes, seguir los partidos de la NBA, dar largos paseos y pasar tiempo con su familia.

Luego de obtener su licenciatura en enfermería en la Universidad Estatal de California, Long Beach, Claudine Yamaoka, NP, trabajó como enfermera registrada en el Children's Hospital Orange County y en el Children's of Los Angeles. Luego regresó al mundo académico y asistió a la Universidad de California, Los Ángeles (UCLA) y obtuvo su maestría en enfermería, así como su PNP.

También trabajó como PNP escolar para el Distrito Escolar Unificado de Irvine. No obstante, la mayor parte de su carrera se ha dedicado a la práctica privada de la pediatría, atendiendo desde lactantes hasta adolescentes. La enfermera Yamaoka también ha sido instructora clínica de estudiantes de posgrado de la UCI durante cuatro años enseñando pediatría, y ha sido preceptora de estudiantes de Cal. State Long Beach y la UCLA durante muchos años. Disfruta del cuidado de pacientes de todas las edades, desde bebés hasta adolescentes, tanto en el cuidado del paciente sano como del enfermo.

Ms. Shawnna Morrison, NP-C, is an experienced Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. Ms. Morrison completed her education first at Vassar College and then at Cal. State University, Long Beach. She speaks English and Spanish fluently, and brings many years of practical experience to our team at CLCHC where she joined in 2023.

Maggie O’Donnell is a dedicated Women’s Health Family Nurse Practitioner at Celebrating Life Community Health Center. She holds bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Women’s Studies from California State University, San Marcos, and later earned both BSN and MSN degrees from California State University, Fullerton. Maggie’s healthcare journey began as a Postpartum/OB-GYN/Mother-Baby RN at Providence Mission Hospital, where she spent a decade supporting new mothers and families. She later completed her FNP program at the University of Cincinnati to expand her scope of care.

At CLCHC, Maggie provides comprehensive women’s health services, including well-woman exams, cancer screenings, contraception counseling, and management of conditions like PCOS, pelvic pain, and menopause. Passionate about building connections, she approaches every patient with empathy, education, and a commitment to empowering women to take charge of their health. A Mission Viejo resident and proud mom of two boys, Maggie enjoys beach days, football games, and creating family memories. Her journey from HR to women’s healthcare reflects her dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of her patients.

Amanda MacAllister, PA-C, brings a wealth of experience and a profound dedication to her role as a Physician Assistant, with an impressive 17-year journey in healthcare. Fluent in Spanish and English, she serves as a bridge, ensuring that language is never a barrier to accessing quality care, particularly within underserved communities. Amanda’s commitment to her patients is matched only by her advocacy for equitable healthcare practices. A Master’s graduate of Seton Hill University in Pennsylvania, she blends her academic prowess with a compassionate touch in her approach to medicine. Outside of her professional endeavors, Amanda enjoys dancing and playing video games.

John Nungaray, PA-C, is a family medicine Physician Assistant who graduated from Stanford University’s School of Medicine with a Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies. He is nationally certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). He has a background in psychiatric research with multiple co-authorships in peer-reviewed scientific journals, specifically in schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s dementia.

John is fluent in English and Spanish and hopes to serve as an advocate in healthcare for the Latinx community and other underserved populations in his native Southern California. In his spare time, he enjoys running and spending time with his wife and two young sons.

Susan Elftman received her PA degree in 1980 from Alderson-Broaddus University. She went on to earn her Masters in Public Health from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 1990. Ms. Elftman is a PA in Family Medicine, with additional experience in OB-GYN and Urgent Care settings.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Ms. Elftman enjoys spending time with her family, reading, puzzling, and cooking. An aunt to 18 and grandaunt to 13, Susan loves to spend her free time with her husband visiting Disneyland or enjoying a good book and some decadent chocolate.

Mr. Randall Perkins, PA-C is a psychiatric physician assistant who graduated from Boston University School of Medicine with a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Program. He is a current doctoral candidate (DMSc) at SIU School of Medicine as well as a fellow in the primary care psychiatry fellowship at UCI School of Medicine. He is certified with the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).

Mr. Perkins has a background in psychiatry, addiction medicine, and behavioral health. He is passionate about mental health promotion and believes in a two-pronged approach implementing psychotherapy and pharacotherapy if and when appropriate to address different conditions. He joined CLCHC in 2023.

Chanel Green, PA-C, is a dedicated Physician Assistant from St. Petersburg, Florida, with a rich background in global health and a deep commitment to serving marginalized communities. Her path into medicine began with international research on global health disparities, which she pursued at The University of Oxford and The University of the West Indies. This global perspective was further solidified during her studies at American University in Washington, DC, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Health. Her involvement with the Global Medical Brigades organization and her experiences providing medical care in rural Panama sparked her passion for medicine. It inspired her pursuit of the Physician Assistant profession.

She advanced her education with a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCUHS), graduating in December 2023. Her commitment to serving underserved populations was recognized through her selection as a National Health Service Corps Scholar and as the recipient of the Exxat Student Award Scholarship in Diversity and Inclusion.

With five months of experience in primary care, she developed a strong interest in treating psychiatric conditions. She is passionate about delivering holistic, patient-centered care integrating cognitive therapies and pharmaceutical approaches. She is dedicated to educating her patients about their conditions and treatment options and empowering them with personalized strategies for managing their mental health.

In her personal time, she enjoys cooking, reading, hiking, traveling, and spending time with her family. She is excited to join Celebrating Life Community Health Center, and is eager to contribute to a team of exceptional physicians and providers to achieve optimal outcomes for our patients.

Omar is a first-generation Mexican American, born and raised in the San Fernando area. As the son of immigrants, he is passionate about diversifying medicine and uplifting underserved communities. He earned his bachelor’s degree from California State University, Northridge, and gained clinical experience as an EMT throughout Los Angeles. Omar graduated from Stanford University’s School of Medicine Physician Assistant program and is a National Health Service Corps (NHSC) scholar, committed to serving communities like the ones he grew up in.

His research background spans organic chemistry and sexual health disparities in men, with current research focusing on lifestyle medicine as a Doctorate of Medical Sciences candidate. In his free time, Omar enjoys exercising, listening to podcasts, watching shows, traveling, and spending time with loved ones.

Mario Raul Navarro Jr., PA-C is a Spanish-fluent family medicine physician assistant and National Health Service Corps Scholarship recipient located in Southern California. He completed his undergraduate degree in psychobiology at UCLA in 2018 and his Master of Health Science degree at the UC Davis Physician Assistant program in 2023. Prior to matriculating into his PA program, he worked as an EMT with American Medical Response (AMR) and as an emergency room technician at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

Mario is a first-generation Mexican American and proud son of immigrants from the states of Sinaloa and Jalisco, Mexico. Outside of work, Mario trains for marathon runs and serves as drummer for the worship team at his local church.

Dr. Sherine Botros is a Board-Certified Dentist licensed in both California and New York. Dr. Botros received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from New York University (NYU) in 2011, where she graduated with Honors. After graduating, she further enhanced her experience by joining a General Practice Residency program at Nassau University Medical Center in New York, where she performed general dentistry in a hospital setting. Subsequently, Dr. Botros worked in Jamaica Hospital in New York as an Attending and lead Dentist. She has also worked in several private practice dental practices.

In 2020, Dr. Botros moved back to California where she grew up. She has gained years of experience working in community health clinics in both New York and California. She focuses her efforts on providing care to the underserved, and is happy to serve as the Dental Director at Celebrating Life Community Health Center.

Dr. Botros enjoys spending time with her family. In her spare time, she enjoys drawing, painting, playing music, relaxing at the beach, or getting involved with volunteer work and church activities. Dr. Botros speaks English and Arabic.

Dr. Juliana Neves is a dedicated and compassionate dentist with over two decades of experience in the field. She graduated from dental school in 2001, obtained her Master’s degree in Orthodontics in 2008, and completed Advanced Clinical Training in Restorative Dentistry in 2024.

Dr. Neves is passionate about providing exceptional care to her patients and is always ready to help. She takes the worries and well-being of her patients very seriously, with the goal of encouraging them to take care of themselves and embrace their smiles. Her commitment to serving the community and making a difference in her patients’ lives is what drives her every day.

In her free time, Dr. Neves enjoys spending quality time with her family at the beach and traveling. She speaks English, Portuguese, and Spanish, and is thrilled to be a part of the Celebrating Life Community Health Center team, where she can continue her passion for serving and making a positive impact on her patients’ lives.

Dr. William Wang was born and raised in Orange County. He received his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of California, Irvine. After that, he studied dentistry at the University of Southern California (USC), where he graduated with Honors distinction.

Dr. Wang values compassion and care in his work, and patients appreciate his warm chair-side manner and gentle hands. He looks forward to helping you achieve your best smile. In his free time, Dr. Wang enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. His hobbies include surfing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities.

Dr. Alex Duong is a dental practitioner originally from Orange County. He graduated from University of the Pacific with BS in Biological Sciences in 2014 and again from the University of the Pacific for DDS in 2018. For five years, he worked in the Central Valley as a dentist at community health centers and now is grateful to have the opportunity to do the same in the community from which he is from.

Dr. Duong appreciates honesty and understanding and looks to convey this in his work. He enjoys reading for relaxation as well as for education. He also enjoys music of many different genres.

Dr. Nilforushan graduated with honors from Creighton University School of Dentistry. Fluent in both English and Farsi, Dr. Nilforushan is dedicated to providing high-quality dental care to patients from diverse backgrounds, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for everyone he treats.

He enjoys working with individuals from all walks of life, helping them achieve optimal oral health in a welcoming environment. In his free time, Dr. Nilforushan stays active by playing soccer and loves spending time with his wife, especially enjoying picnics by the beach.

Dr. Vinh Ngo is a California-licensed dentist at Celebrating Life Community Health Center (CLCHC), providing comprehensive general dentistry through preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic oral healthcare to patients of all ages. Before joining CLCHC, Dr. Ngo served as a staff dentist at various Federally Qualified Health Centers in Southern California. Passionate about patient care, Dr. Ngo treats every patient like family. He holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the USC Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the University of California, Irvine. Outside of work, Dr. Ngo enjoys spending time with his family and caring for his plants.

Dr. Mariam Mott earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Behavioral Medicine from the University of San Diego and San Diego State University in 1991. She has more than 30 years of administrative and clinical experience working with children, teens, and families in a variety of settings. Her experience includes teen substance abuse, therapeutic foster care, youth group homes, educational settings, and private practice. Dr. Mott’s theoretical orientation is primarily behavioral and cognitive-behavioral, although she uses techniques from other disciplines as appropriate to meet her clients’ needs. She also incorporates her Christian values into counseling when welcomed by her clients and their families. Dr. Mott provides a caring, nurturing environment for youth to explore their strengths and areas of development. gain insights, and discover their full potential.

Melisa Nicholson es una trabajadora social clínica certificada que cursó una licenciatura en Servicios Humanos y una maestría en trabajo social en la Universidad Estatal de California, Fullerton. Melisa tiene experiencia trabajando como trabajadora social médica para los Servicios de Protección de Menores del Condado de Orange, como profesional clínico de salud mental en equipos comunitarios integrales y en atención residencial para menores refugiados no acompañados.

Es hispanohablante, capacitada en terapia de trauma EMDR, y muy apasionada por ofrecer un espacio seguro para los adolescentes y adultos para contar sus historias y comenzar su viaje de curación.

Maria Raine received her Masters in Social Work from the University of Denver. Maria has experience working with children, adults, and families in various treatment settings and has worked extensively with clients in family preservation and family reunification services through CPS. Maria is well-versed in working with clients in a wide variety of issues including relationship difficulties, life changes, parenting, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.

Maria joined CLCHC in 2023. She subscribes to a strengths-based, client-centered approach and utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and structural therapy techniques with her clients. Maria is passionate about the social work model and meeting her clients where they are at to achieve mental health growth.

Alyssa Mason is an Associate Clinical Social Worker and earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in social work from California State University, Long Beach. Alyssa has experience working with children and families as a counselor, discharge planning and case management in a locked rehabilitation center, and assisting and providing basic need resources and housing to children, families, and veterans.

Alyssa joined CLCHC in 2023. She utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy and a client centered approach. She provides a safe welcoming environment for clients to explore their area of needs, improvements, capabilities, and strengths. Alyssa is passionate about establishing a collaborative process and achieving health, wellness, and growth.

Brittany Farmer is an Associate Clinical Social Worker who received her Masters in Social Work from California State University, Fullerton. Brittany has experience working with children and families as a school counselor, a therapist in community mental health, and as a resource family specialist at a foster care agency. Brittany has also worked with individuals struggling with homelessness and is very passionate about the idea that income should not limit access to mental health services.

Brittany joined CLCHC in June 2024. Her therapy approach derives from a strength-based approach and the goal of empowering clients with the tools to navigate their struggles. Brittany utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, exposure therapy, and other techniques to help support her clients. If Brittany were to choose a quote that drives her therapeutic mindset, it would be that “empathy is gold.” Brittany firmly believes in her clients and enjoys walking alongside them in their healing journeys.

Brandon Turner, ACSW, received his Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice at Utah Tech University, then going on to earn his Master of Social Work at California Baptist University. Brandon has worked in case management for juvenile and adult populations, both inside and outside of incarceration. With expertise in addressing drug addiction, he also managed cases across inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs. Brandon is adamant about tackling barriers detrimental to one’s wellbeing and overall success. He is known for his empathetic approach in building strong rapport with clients, emphasizing resilience and personalized plans that empower self-sufficiency and growth. He is recognized for executing comprehensive strategies to help clients achieve their goals and overcome challenges effectively. A quote that Brandon lives by is “don’t be afraid to be great”.

A graduate of the University of Southern California, Shannon Goodman (MSW) grew up in Orange County and has experienced living and working with diverse populations throughout the U.S. This experience has fed her passion for serving the communities which live and work back home, in OC.

Shannon’s education and professional experience with PTSD has focused her drive to support the growing number of people living with trauma. Both her faith and strengths in commitment, problem-solving, and wholehearted client advocacy feed her dedication to helping clients achieve meaningful progress.

Sophia graduated from California State University, Long Beach with a Master’s degree in social work. She has studied and worked in the field of social work for nearly a decade, and strives to continuously learn new skills to leverage in her work. Sophia’s passion for uplifting communities, coupled with her desire to help others, drove her to pursue a career in social work. Through the years, she has prioritized an emphasis on self-care, health, and wellness. Outside of her work, she enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors.