Pat joins the Lighthouse team to ‘give back’ to the community

Pat brings over 25 years of experience helping women, children, and families navigate life’s challenges.

In June 2026, Pat joined the Lighthouse team as the Lead Case Manager. With a bachelor’s degree in social work, a master’s degree in counseling psychology, and more than 25 years of experience in the mental health field, Pat brings a wealth of experience supporting women, children and families through a wide range of challenges.

For the past 10 years, Pat has been in private practice, with a particular focus on women, new mothers, postpartum anxiety and depression, parenting, and substance abuse counseling.

She’s “beyond excited” to join the Rescue Mission Alliance family.

After 10 years with your own practice, what brought you to the Lighthouse?

I went into private practice when my daughter was born. I wanted to ensure I had work-life balance and still be as present as a mom and a working mom as I could be. But my heart has always been in the work that I do. I’ve always wanted to help marginalized and vulnerable populations.

It just felt like the right time. My daughter is older and going into middle school, and I have much more experience now. So, when the chance came along to coach and train the next generation, it felt like such a great opportunity to give back.

Is mentoring a big part of your role as Lead Case Manager?

Yes! And it’s a totally brand-new position for Rescue Mission Alliance, so it’s very exciting. Once a month, I go to all the sites that have case managers, so I’m a support for every single Mission, whether it’s in Ventura County, San Fernando Valley or the Central Coast.

It’s important because all case managers are universally getting the same training while still recognizing and respecting that each site and community are different. And I’m available to any case manager for consultation, training or coaching.

I’m so grateful for the mentors I’ve had in my life. I think it’s the best gift you could give to someone. So, to be able to pay that forward is so cool.

What’s something you’ve learned while working at RMA?

I’ve had the privilege of going to all the sites multiple times, so that’s been amazing. One thing I’ve learned and been most inspired by is the heart of every single employee I’ve met. It seems like everyone’s heart is in it for the right reasons and everyone just wants to be the best that they can be at whatever role they are in.

My favorite part has been meeting the staff. I’ve honestly received the warmest welcome at every site. And it’s been really fun to get to know each person, why they’re here, and to hear their life story and learn how to best support them.

What would you like more people to know about the Mission?

I want people to know that this is a program where true healing happens. It’s not just a quick fix or a Band-Aid. It’s very intentional and specifically designed for people to truly have a transformed life after graduating from the program.

And I want more people to know that whatever skill they have can be used to support the program, because it takes a lot of people to change lives. If anyone has a skill or talent, or they want to volunteer or help in any way, please don’t be afraid to reach out to the Mission.

Is there anything you’d like to say to donors?

Thank you! We truly appreciate all types of donations. Whether it’s time, money or goods, any type of gift makes such a huge difference to everyone at the Mission.

We also love all our fantastic volunteers. That’s what’s so amazing, because it’s about someone showing up as themselves and sharing what they’re most passionate about.

Maybe you’re passionate about the arts, finances or organizing. We can use all of those talents.

It’s really about people investing in and showing our residents that they are seen, heard and that they matter.