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Meet the Clinicians: Irene Garcia, LCSW
Irene Garcia, LCSW is a foodie at heart. After taking culinary courses, she worked in the food service industry, both in management and as a chef. She absolutely loved it. But when someone close to her was faced with a crisis, Irene discovered her passion for helping people navigate mental health challenges and chose a new career path.
“I was really motivated by how difficult and complex it can be to find support for a loved one,” Irene said. “I was helping someone myself and, as I learned more about it, I became passionate about building my career around mental health and psychology.”
After taking courses in psychosocial rehabilitation at Middlesex County College, Irene earned her bachelor’s degree with a dual major in psychology and psychiatric rehabilitation through a dual program with the School of Health-Related Professions and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ). She has also trained at the School of Social Work at Rutgers University with a specialization in children and families.
“I found that social work is a very diverse field in which I could learn more about helping people in so many different groups and populations,” Irene said. “I was able to work with children and families in an elementary school setting and in child welfare, which helped me better understand what happens with families in crisis.”
As a bilingual counselor, Irene has assisted families that have immigrated to the US, providing support as they acclimate to a new country. She has seen firsthand how difficult these adjustments can be, especially for marginalized populations, including children who have developed depression and anxiety as they struggle to find their way.
During the pandemic, Irene also provided case management services by phone. She introduced families to resources that could help them overcome challenges and thrive.
“Everyone deserves a dedicated person on their side,” Irene said. “Sometimes people are so busy that it becomes hard to just slow it down. It’s really important for me to slow it down and do good work for people who are struggling, especially for children and families who feel like they’re on their own.”
As a former resident of Nutley who lives in a neighboring town, Irene is no stranger to the community that Nutley Family Service Bureau (NFSB) calls home. She enjoys helping people in a close-knit community and appreciates how NFSB supports people through mental health counseling, case management, and food pantry services, all of which align with her professional experience.
“Clients who keep coming back because they understand that I’m here for support make this very rewarding,” Irene said. “I want them to know I’m here to assist with evidence-based interventions, whether they need to stabilize their symptoms or just try to reframe their thinking. I’m grateful when they see how much I want to help them.”
The Mental Health Program at Nutley Family Service Bureau (NFSB) provides counseling and psychiatric services for individuals and families. New clients are welcome and immediate in-person and telehealth appointments are available. English- and Spanish-speaking counselors are ready to help and we’ll always respect your privacy. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 973-667-1884 extension 1.
