About Heather Avena, CSWi (She/Her)

Hi, my name is Heather Avena, CSWi. I am a passionate and empathetic social services professional currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Social Work at Arizona State University. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Brigham Young University and bring several years of hands-on experience supporting individuals and families across diverse settings.

I believe deeply in the power of vulnerability, personal growth, and strong support systems. My approach is rooted in a strengths-based perspective, focused on empowering clients to recognize their resilience and capacity for change. I find meaning in walking alongside others—through individual work, group settings, and creative, recreational therapeutic approaches—to support healing and personal growth.

My professional experience includes working with families raising children with special healthcare needs, supporting immigrant teens in foster care and their caregivers, and assisting refugees navigating complex life transitions. I have also worked in inpatient settings with adolescents and women experiencing eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.

I am fluent in Spanish and deeply value cultural humility and inclusivity. I have lived in multiple countries throughout Latin America and recently relocated from Washington state with my family. I enjoy traveling, learning from different cultures, and bringing a global, compassionate perspective into my work. These experiences inform my practice and help me build meaningful, trust-based relationships with clients from all backgrounds.