Irene Echavarria's bio
Greetings! My name is Irene and I am an instructor here at CAPS Academy! Welcome to the first step on your journey toward becoming a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist!
A little about me: I have experience working as a peer, supporting the TAY (Transitional-Age-Youth) population, as well as working as a peer supporting folks transitioning from incarceration into the community. I love both of these populations for different reasons. The youth in me who needed that type of support when I was a kiddo deeply resonates with TAY, while the person who has fought many battles and overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles deeply resonates with the formerly incarcerated population. I am a first-generation college graduate. I graduated from CSU Chico in May, 2023 with a degree in sociology.
I believe in social justice, and use my lived experience and education to meet people where they are. I understand the barriers that people from historically oppressed communities face. I also recognize that folks from these communities are at higher risk of experiencing mental health challenges, including substance use. My approach is one of compassion, empowerment, respect and being trauma-informed.
I have lived experience with navigating CPTSD and anxiety. From this experience, I have worked hard to find my voice in this life and use it to proudly help others find their own.
Some things that I enjoy doing are hanging out with my dog, Rocky and my kids, working out, immersing myself in the outdoors, going to concerts, BBQing (I am a grill master!) and napping!