We are thrilled to celebrate Katherinne Guinea, Clinical Coordinator at the Pasadena Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (PCADD), for reaching an important milestone in her professional journey. On August 12, 2025, Katherinne officially earned her Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) credential through the Board of Behavioral Sciences—a well-deserved accomplishment that highlights her commitment, dedication, and passion for helping others.
Katherinne’s path into the behavioral health field has been guided by both curiosity and compassion. Her interest in psychology began in high school, where she first discovered how relationships and life experiences shape the way we think, feel, and act. This passion inspired her to pursue a B.A. in Psychology and, later, to specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy. She chose this field because she believes relationships are at the heart of human experience—they can be our greatest source of joy, but also our deepest source of pain. For Katherinne, becoming a therapist felt less like a career choice and more like a calling: the opportunity to help individuals, couples, and families heal, rebuild trust, and strengthen the connections that bring life meaning.
Her journey with Social Model Recovery Systems (SMRS) began soon after graduation, when she joined, eager to gain real-world experience while applying her academic knowledge. Working full time while continuing her education, she embraced every opportunity to grow as a clinician. With the support of SMRS’ educational program, Katherinne completed her master’s degree and successfully earned her AMFT credential—a moment she describes as a dream come true.
Through her work, Katherinne has developed a deep appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit. Her experience has taught her to meet people where they are, honor their unique journeys, and approach therapy with empathy, patience, and cultural awareness. In her own words, “I believe that healing is not just about treating symptoms, but about restoring hope, dignity, and connection.”
As she steps into this new chapter, Katherinne is excited to continue making an impact at PCADD and within the broader field of behavioral health. She is committed to providing compassionate, client-centered care, integrating evidence-based practices with cultural sensitivity, and advocating for underserved communities.
Please join us in congratulating Katherinne on this incredible achievement. We are proud of her contributions, inspired by her passion, and excited for the many ways she will continue to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.
