New Member Spotlight: Eastern Region - Jessica Pena-Cabana, PhD, MEd, LPC, LCAS

New AASECT member, Jessica Pena-Cabana, PhD, MEd, LPC, LCAS, answers a few questions for the New Member Spotlight: Eastern Region:

1. What keeps you busiest these days?

My days have become increasingly busy with the our relocation to a bigger and brighter office.  In the past year we have been able to bring additional services (including sex therapy) to the Columbia area.  We now have 7 therapist who can provide services in English and Spanish.  This has opened the doors for so many who need help and may have nor sought help due to language barriers.  My days are also filled with the daily challenges and smiles that occur when one has three wonderful daughters and a supportive husband.

2. Why was it important for you to become an AASECT member?

AASECT allows me to learn, stay in touch, and keep up with the new changes in this line of therapy. I especially like the educational links and resources AASECT offers.  

3. What are your main areas of interest within the field?

Couples, intimacy, LGBT, Transgender, sexuality, and communication.

4. What has been the most exciting project you've worked on, and why?

My most exciting project in the Columbia area has been able to offer the services for "all" and for whom ever walks through our doors.  No judgments or exclusion.  Coming from NYC this way of thought was different when setting up an office in the South.  We are a welcoming and experienced clinical team, who do our best to help all who need it. 

5. What has been the most challenging project you've worked on, and why? What helped you get through it?

Over the past few months, I have found myself dealing with new clinicians, changes in managed care, and an increase of clients needing help with specialized problems.

6. Where do you see your career five years, or even 10 years, from now?

Hopefully, I will have the financial security and happiness doing what I love with the people I care about around me.