Sonia Torres, LCSW, LAC, IMH-E®
Clinical Social Worker, Head Start Program Manager, Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant
Hello, my name is Sonia Torres! I am a bilingual therapist and social worker with over 10 years of experience supporting children, youth, and families across a variety of settings, including schools, group homes, foster homes, residential facilities, primary care clinics, and youth centers. I specialize in trauma-informed care, with a focus on how trauma impacts mental health, relationships, and substance use. I’m deeply passionate about social work, family systems, early learning, education, youth development, and animal-assisted support.
One of my favorite aspects of consultation is its proactive nature. Creating space to educate and empower caregivers and professionals around children's mental wellness.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my dog, Puma, being with family, traveling, and exploring the outdoors.
Jeanne Teske, LCSW
Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant
Hello, my name is Jeanne Teske. I earned my MSW from University of Michigan, in Social Treatment, which is direct clinical work with individuals and families. In practice, I have worked almost exclusively in Consultation, always associated with educational services of varying kinds. I’m delighted to be with Head Start at this point in my career. I enjoy consultation, because it works mainly as collaboration. I am constantly aware that I may serve as an advocate, at times, but I am always a partner with my consultee. Outside of work, I love to walk in the city parks, and I hope to get back into quilting at some point.
Kristin Chivers, LCSW
Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant
Hello, my name is Kristin Chivers. I graduated with my MSW from University of Denver with a concentration in Clinical Social Work. I have worked with children and families in a variety of settings ranging from Community Mental Health, School Social Work, and Private Practice. My work is based in a trauma informed approach while supporting children and families through transitions and life changes. My specialties include parenting, child and caregiver relationships, trauma, behavior, child development, and restorative practices. Consultation is an opportunity to help build protective factors in both caregivers and children, connect with community members, and provide on-going support to school staff and families. Outside of consultation I enjoy spending time with my two beautiful children, Silas and Sophia and my family, camping, being outdoors, gardening, hanging out with my dogs, and traveling.
Maren Safran. LSW
Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant
Hello, my name is Maren Safran, I graduated with my MSW from Metropolitan State University of Denver. I have experience working alongside children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced grief, loss, and major life transitions. My work is centers around validating personal experiences, building trusting relationships, and working collaboratively to encourage wellbeing. I enjoy this work because it allows me to work as a partner, connect with the community, and spread awareness. Outside of consulting I enjoy spending time with my family, crocheting, and being outdoors. I’m fluent in American Sign language
Andrea Girolmo, LPC
Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant
Hi, my name is Andrea Girolmo and my background is in family medicine as a bilingual behavioral consultant for the last 9 years. I have had the privilege to work with clients across the lifespan in both the medical setting and in my own private practice. I take pride in working with underserved populations and easing access to mental health care. I specialize in treating mood disorders and generational trauma. I use a person center approach and emphasize the importance of the therapeutic relationship. In my role as an Early Childhood Mental Health consultant, I want to provide education, support, access, and prevention. I enjoy working alongside the community I am serving and will often say my clients are the ones driving and I am the co-pilot. I find joy in spending time with my children, reading, and learning. I also love trying new foods, I believe food is a universal connection.
Erin Wheatley, MSW
Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant
Hello, my name is Erin Wheatley! I use she/her/hers pronouns. I completed my BSW at the University of Pittsburgh and my MSW at New York University. I have experience in a variety of social work settings, including schools, hospitals, residential treatment facilities, and community-based programs. While working with children and their families, I use a trauma-informed and systems approach to best support all parties involved. As a consultant, I enjoy the collaboration and relationship-building that occurs with children, families, teachers, and other involved supports. I believe positive change is possible when we work together. It is my goal to support, educate, lift up, partner with, and advocate for my clients. Outside of work, I love spending time reading, running, practicing yoga, and spending time with my dog, Evie.
