She/Her

BSW: Augsburg University
MSW (in-progress): Augsburg University

Hello! My name is Farina. As a first-generation Hmong student, I want to be able to support my community in removing the barriers that exist in our community around mental health awareness. I believe that it is critical to understand and contribute to the field of mental health, which is why I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults who are beginning to navigate their lives and need extra support! My interest in working in the social work field stems from my childhood. Being the oldest child in an immigrant family, I had to overcome many obstacles and struggles in order to support my family. Through this, I was able to see and experience the difficulties that children raised by immigrant families faced when dealing with their mental health.

My clinical interest includes working with adolescents and young adults. Through previous professional experiences I have worked with the ages of 4-21 year olds from diverse backgrounds. I enjoy supporting individuals who are dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression.

My approach is to establish a nurturing atmosphere that cultivates confidence that enables individuals to freely express themselves. I believe in the strengths of individuals in creating a care which they think is best for them. I will work with my client to support and advocate for their needs, understanding that they are the experts in who they are. I am committed to provide individuals with authentic and sincere care by facilitating interactions that enable them to freely communicate their needs and empower them.

Outside of my professional and academic life, I enjoy spending time with my family and exploring different cultures through food and traveling! Whenever I have down time, I enjoy trying out new food recipes. At the moment my favorite dish I’ve cooked is shrimp tacos!