back to spring 2025 newsletter 

The Mentorship Program of SCV CAMFT is a structured yet flexible platform that provides guidance and personalized support to participants in navigating the complexities of the mental health profession. Members will be matched (subject to availability)  with one of our established professionals listed in our members-only Mentor Directory. Each dyad collaboratively establishes parameters that address their specific needs—whether preparing for licensure, developing a private practice, refining clinical skills, or defining professional identity.

Distinct from supervision or consultation, this program provides the wisdom and perspective that only experienced colleagues can offer.

“The SCV-CAMFT chapter has many very distinguished and experienced therapists in its membership roster, and many are themselves at a point of wanting to pass along wisdom and encouragement to the newer therapists, including pre licensed and newly licensed ones,” Alex Mackenzie, Director of Support Groups and Mentorship Program notes. “There has been such a proliferation over the past decade of new approaches, techniques, modalities, and theories that mentorship opportunities are richer than ever. The Chapter wants to facilitate connections amongst members as mentors and mentees, to offer assistance in navigating the changing landscape of mental health services.”

Mariana Tiwari, ACSW, who volunteers in developing and administering the Mentorship Program, chimes in. “I’ll be honest—I didn’t even know this program existed at first. Once I learned about it, it just made so much sense. Therapy, particularly private practice, can feel really isolating sometimes, especially early in our career. Having someone a little further down the road who’s open to sharing their experience (without it being supervision or a class) is such a valuable kind of support. It’s not about fixing or teaching—it’s about connection, perspective, and encouragement. And I think mentors get something out of it too… we’re all figuring things out, just at different stages.”

Mariana further states that it is easy to participate. “It’s easy to get started. Just log into your SCV-CAMFT profile, check the box to say you’re interested in being a mentor or mentee, and add a short write-up about your interests and goals. From there, you can browse the directory or reach out to someone who seems like a good fit. It’s meant to be low-pressure and flexible—just a way to connect with someone who gets it.”

Join our community of professionals committed to mutual growth and discover how mentorship can illuminate your path forward while building meaningful connections that strengthen our profession. https://scv-camft.org/mentor-program