At Social Model Recovery Systems, we proudly celebrate team members whose dedication, resilience, and passion inspire those around them. Today, we recognize the incredible achievement of Melanie Arellano and her journey to earning her master’s degree in Family Therapy with a Trauma emphasis.
Melanie’s educational journey began while attending East Los Angeles College, where she studied Psychology with a minor in Chicana/o Studies. Inspired by one of her professors, Dr. Vartanian, Melanie began to envision a future where she could educate and support individuals in the substance use recovery field. That vision soon evolved into a goal of pursuing a master’s degree.
One of her greatest sources of motivation was her grandfather and mentor, who began his own recovery and educational journey later in life. Melanie recalls how he would lovingly ask if she had earned her master’s degree yet, always encouraging her to keep going. During his time in hospice, Melanie made him a promise that she would continue pursuing that dream, a promise she carried with her throughout her academic journey.
Encouraged by a longtime friend and mentor, Melanie explored Pacific Oaks College and quickly connected with the college’s values and mission. While caring for her grandfather, she was accepted into the Community Psychology program and later pursued her graduate degree in Family Therapy with a Trauma emphasis. Another influential mentor, Dr. Bielecki, encouraged Melanie to believe in her ability to succeed while working full-time and attending school full-time, and she did exactly that.
Graduate school challenged Melanie in profound ways. While balancing demanding workdays, family responsibilities, and personal struggles with mental health, she often found herself submitting assignments just minutes before deadlines. Despite exhaustion and moments of self-doubt, she persevered with the support of her family, friends, mentors, and colleagues.
For Melanie, one of the most meaningful parts of earning her degree was the example she set for her grandchildren. They watched her study late at night, complete assignments during vacations, and continue pushing forward even when things felt difficult. She hopes her journey reminds them that resilience, determination, and perseverance can help make any dream possible.
Professionally, Melanie says her degree transformed the way she leads and supports others. Through a systems-based and trauma-informed lens, she now approaches leadership by looking beyond individual challenges to understand patterns, communication, wellness, and culture within organizations and treatment programs. Her education strengthened her ability to make ethical decisions, balance multiple perspectives, and lead with integrity, equity, and compassion.
Among the experiences that impacted her most were Equine-Assisted Therapy and EMDR training. These experiences not only deepened her clinical skills but also helped her recognize her own resilience and healing journey.
Today, Melanie describes family therapy and helping others heal as her true calling. She is most proud of her determination to finish despite the many obstacles she faced along the way.
When asked what advice she would give to others considering graduate school, Melanie shared:
- No matter what, don’t give up on yourself, because no one is going to do it for you; if you really want it, you have got to push yourself.
- Making friends with those who have graduated with a master’s degree before you have attained yours is valuable especially when you think you can’t go on, they will inspire you and remind you that you can do it.
- Become disciplined and determined. I didn’t realize that I possessed these characteristics, but I forced myself to develop them.
- Ask questions and get clarification; it’s a strength to be able to allow yourself to ask. No one expects you to know it already, which is why we are in school!
- Allow yourself to be cared for when your loved ones want to help you in any way, accept the help. Whether they offer meals, laundry, naptime, coffee break. Accept it! You need it!
Melanie’s story is one of perseverance, healing, leadership, and purpose. We are honored to celebrate her achievement and the impact she continues to make in the lives of others.
