At Social Model Recovery Systems, we are proud to welcome a team of exceptional new employees who bring a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to our shared mission of fostering recovery and wellness. These individuals embody our core values of compassion, empathy, and a commitment to empowering others. Get to know Vanessa Guerrero, Douglas White, and Edna Uballe as they embark on their journeys with us, contributing their unique talents and perspectives to our organization.
Vanessa Guerrero AMFT
Clinical Coordinator, LPHA- Mariposa
Vanessa began her educational journey at East Los Angeles College, studying Psychology, Sociology, and Addiction Studies, with the aim of gaining a holistic understanding of individuals, society, and the impact these factors have on a person’s life, environment, and recovery journey. Her goal was to pursue a career that would allow her to assist individuals and families in their recovery process. Vanessa transferred to California State University, Los Angeles, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2021. She continued her education in Mental Health, driven by a passion to break the negative cultural stigma surrounding mental health, particularly within her Latino community. In 2024, Vanessa earned a Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy from California State University, Dominguez Hills, where she honed her skills as a bilingual therapist, offering therapy in both English and Spanish. She worked with individuals, couples, and adolescents involved with the Department of Children and Family Services, gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges many families face due to addiction, domestic violence, parenting issues, and trauma. Through her work as a trauma-informed and person-centered therapist, Vanessa learned the power of listening. She believes there is a distinct difference between listening to understand and listening to respond. Her approach is always rooted in empathy, understanding, and advocacy. As part of the Social Model Recovery Systems, she is excited to be part of a team supporting individuals in their recovery and mental health journeys.
A fun fact about Vanessa is that she enjoys traveling and has explored different areas of Mexico, Florida, Washington D.C., New York, and hiked at Zion National Park in Utah.
Douglas White MFA-RADT
Primary Aide- Royal Palms
Douglas, a Los Angeles native, began his education at Ventura Community College before transferring to Santa Monica City College. He then continued his studies at the University of Southern California (USC), where he majored in Film Studies and Communication. Following his time at USC, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design from Full Sail University, where he also completed a Master’s in Media Design.. He worked as an Art Director for a non-profit for ten years before launching his own multimedia company, creating documentaries and design projects for a variety of clients.
After struggling with addiction, Doug shifted his focus to helping others in recovery. He is currently pursuing a degree in Addiction Studies and holds certifications in RAD-T and Mental Health First Aid. Doug now works as a Primary Aide at Royal Palms LGBTQ+ Residential treatment in Los Angeles. Reflecting on his journey, he says, “I just want to help in any capacity. Giving back is why I’m here. My experience as a resident in North Hollywood gave me invaluable insight into my addictions through the 12-Step Program.”
In his free time, Doug enjoys scuba diving, surfing, cinematography, and body building.
Edna Uballe
HR Generalist
Edna Uballe began her Human Resource career as a recruiter for Millennium Enterprise in 2009. She was recommended for a trainer/customer service position at NYX Cosmetics in 2013, but it wasn’t long before the HR Manager took her under her wings as an HR Coordinator. During this time, Edna’s father was diagnosed with dementia, and she decided to become his full-time caregiver after work hours to give him the quality care and attention that she felt he needed. Soon after his passing in 2018, Edna’s mom was diagnosed with cancer; Edna accepted a hybrid HR Assistant role with Mckinney Trailer Rentals to be closer to home. While at Mckinney, Edna was promoted to an HR Specialist in 2018 and an HR Generalist in 2019. At Mckinney, she focused on employee relations, employment law, health and benefits administration and payroll functions. After her mom passed away in 2020, Edna joined Visiting Angels to continue spreading love in the home care field. She’s passionate about the quality of care that she gives, ensuring that her patients are taken care of with genuine love, compassion, dignity, and respect.
Edna is excited to start at Social Model Recovery Systems, Inc. as an HR Generalist. Although she is new to the field, she believes that the foundation of the Agency aligns with her beliefs. She’s passionate about helping others and prides herself in providing employees with the resources they need to be successful. Edna is also ecstatic to resume her educational path at Cerritos College, where she can then transfer and earn her degree in Business Administration, focusing on Human Resources.
We are thrilled to have Vanessa, Douglas, and Edna join our team, each bringing unique experiences, heartfelt dedication, and a shared commitment to making a difference in the lives of those we serve. Their journeys remind us of the resilience, strength, and diversity that fuel our mission at Social Model Recovery Systems. We look forward to supporting them as they grow and contribute to our collective impact. Welcome aboard!
