Meet Our Team - Chelsea Lucero
Chelsea Lucero, AMFT
Position at the Hallowell Todaro ADHD Center:
Therapist
How long have you been working at Hallowell Todaro ADHD?
I have been working here for about 4 months so far!
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Redlands, California (Southern California, in the Inland Empire).
What are your favorite books / TV shows / movies?
I am currently reading a book called “Mexican Gothic” by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, which is a psychological thriller based in the 1950s, and I’m really enjoying it! I also loved reading the Harry Potter series as it was released when I was growing up.
My favorite TV shows are “The Office,” “New Girl,” “Game of Thrones,” and “This Is Us.” My favorite movie currently is “Everything Everywhere All At Once.”
What is your favorite sport and/or sports team?
I’ve never followed a specific sports team very actively, but I do love going to SF Giants games!
Complete the following sentences:
When I’m not at work, you can find me...
going on walks with my two dogs! They love going on walks and accompanying me in exploring San Francisco.
When I want to de-stress, I...
spend time with my dogs and husband, incorporate more movement into my day, and prioritize rest!
My favorite time of year is...
Fall and Winter. I love the cool crisp air and the sound of the rain.
My favorite thing to cook is...
my mom’s cheese enchilada recipe with rice and beans. It brings back so many memories of cooking with her.
The best gift I ever received was…
in college when some of my best friends surprised me with a picnic of all our favorite restaurants at the top of the best location to watch the sunset. Thoughtful gifts are always most meaningful to me!
If I could travel anywhere in the world, I’d go to…
probably Thailand, Spain, or Italy. As soon as I have the opportunity, I would love to travel to these places.
What led you to pursue a career in helping others?
I have always gravitated towards activities growing up where I could be involved in helping others. My mom was always very compassionate and generous, giving back to her community growing up, and that impacted me. I also grew up being the friend that others would come to gain emotional support. Becoming a therapist has allowed me to use my natural skills to help a larger network of people.
What education, skills, and expertise do you bring to your role?
I earned my bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and my master’s degree from Azusa Pacific University. I have had training in a variety of modalities (such as TF-CBT, DBT, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and Narrative Therapy) to support my clients through the various challenges of life. I have had experience working with clients and families in various different settings, including at the Ronald McDonald House, in schools, at my client’s homes, and in their communities. I especially enjoy working with children, teens, and young adults.
Who/what inspires you?
My family inspires me every day! I am inspired by the way each of them has pursued their passions, and how they continue to live very authentic lives. My mom inspires me to lead with compassion and empathy and to never take a moment for granted. My clients also inspire me every day to continue to learn more about myself and not be afraid to ask for support when I need it.
What’s your personal philosophy/approach toward the work you do?
I believe that building a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship is one of the most important interventions in the therapy process. I believe in being authentically myself in order to create an environment in the therapy room where my clients can feel comfortable being themselves as well. I always work from a strengths-based, and trauma-informed lens to support clients in building on their strengths. I know many clients arrive at therapy not being able to see the strengths in themselves after struggling with different aspects of their life, and I support them in not only recognizing their strengths but also building a stronger belief in themselves and their capabilities.
What is one small thing people can do to improve their lives / increase their happiness?
Spend time with people, and in environments, where they feel they can be authentically themselves. Take life one day at a time, and choose one thing each day that brings feelings of comfort no matter how small that is.
We provide a range of support for people with ADHD.