David S. W.

David S. W. has a diverse work experience that spans various roles and industries. Starting in 2008, they worked as a Program Coordinator at the Pan African Art Gallery and Studio, where they were responsible for creating lesson plans and conducting community outreach initiatives. In 2012, they served as a Research Analyst at Los Angeles Universal Preschool, where they conducted qualitative case studies and compiled data related to the Early Care and Education workforce. From 2013 to 2014, David worked as a Therapist/Clinician at D'Veal Family and Youth Services, providing psychotherapy and maintaining client records. During this time, they also participated in agency-related activities and quality assurance initiatives. In 2014, David joined Mental Health America as a Personal Service Coordinator, where they offered mental health counseling and crisis intervention to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. David S. later assumed the role of Lead Personal Service Coordinator, overseeing team operations. From 2017 to 2020, David worked at Huntington Hospital as a Licensed Program Therapist and later as a Lead Clinical Program Therapist, providing clinical oversight, conducting assessments, and supervising a team of therapists. Currently, David is the Founder and Executive Director of The Planted Brain, Inc., a nonprofit mental health agency focused on increasing access to mental healthcare for underserved communities.

David S. W. obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Africana Studies from California State University, Long Beach, where they studied from 2003 to 2009. David S. further pursued their education at the USC Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, earning a Master's degree in Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management from 2010 to 2013. David S. W. also holds additional certifications as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from the Board Of Behavioral Sciences and as a Master Gardener from UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education.