Hi! I'm Mrs. Rivera, the School Social Worker at Williams Adams Middle Scho0l. My role is to support students both in and outside the classroom by helping with social, emotional, family, and everyday challenges that may affect their success at school.

Students can come to me when they need someone to talk to, help working through a difficult situation, support with stress or emotions, or connections to additional resources. I also work closely with parents, families, teachers, counselors, administrators, and community partners to help make sure students have the support they need. 

I earned my Master of Social Work from Texas A&M University–Kingsville and am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW). Earning a social work degree and becoming licensed are two separate steps. A Master of Social Work is an academic degree, while professional licensure means I have also met additional state requirements, including passing the social work licensing examination and being approved to practice professionally under the standards and ethical requirements established by the state. In other words, someone may have a degree in social work without holding an active social work license.

As an LMSW, I am qualified to provide a range of professional social work services, including assessment, advocacy, case management, resource coordination, supportive counseling, crisis intervention, and other evidence-informed interventions within my scope of practice. I am also continuing my professional development through supervised clinical experience and advanced training toward becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). An LCSW has completed additional supervised clinical experience and licensing requirements that allow for independent clinical practice, including diagnosing and treating mental health conditions and providing psychotherapy.

I was born and raised in South Texas, so being able to serve students and families in this community is especially meaningful to me.

A little about me outside of school:

• I love spending time with my family and friends

• I have three dogs

• I'm usually reading a book when I have some free time

• Pizza and chicken nuggets are always a good choice

• I love sports and coaching

Middle school comes with a lot of changes, new friendships, new expectations, new responsibilities, and sometimes really big feelings. You do not have to figure everything out by yourself. My office is a place where you can ask questions, talk things through, and get connected with support.