Grace Paradiso’s Journey of Dedication and Impact

In the world of mental health and social work, few journeys are as inspiring and moving as that of Grace Paradiso, a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience. Grace’s story is a testament to the power of dedication, resilience, and a profound commitment to serving those in need.

Grace’s path to becoming a social worker was not straightforward. Initially aspiring to be a clinical psychologist, she found herself captivated by the world of social work after six years of hands-on experience with individuals suffering from severe mental illnesses. Her journey began in the mid-80s, working in psychosocial programs where she encountered people with profound mental health challenges. “I worked with such fascinating people,” she recalls, “individuals who had prefrontal lobotomies and heard voices. They were real people with feelings and interesting personalities.”

This early exposure solidified her passion for the field. Despite the competitive nature of her undergraduate program, Grace persevered and graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in sociology. She continued her education at Fordham University, earning a master’s degree and completing internships that further shaped her career. One particularly impactful internship involved working with individuals diagnosed with HIV/AIDS during the early 90s, a time when antiretroviral medications were just beginning to evolve.

Grace’s dedication to her work is evident in her extensive career, which spans various roles and settings. She has worked with people facing severe mental illness, homelessness, and HIV/AIDS, always striving to provide compassionate and effective care. Her experiences include managing an Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) team in New York, which she describes as one of her favorite and most challenging roles. “It was the most fast-paced, exciting, high-risk job. I loved crisis work,” she says, reflecting on her time dealing with psychiatric emergencies and advocating for her patients.

Grace’s journey is not just professional but deeply personal. Growing up as a twin, she faced significant challenges, including the tragic loss of her brother just before they were both set to attend college. Despite her parents’ lack of support, Grace pursued her education with determination, knowing that it would alter the trajectory of her life. “I went against their wishes,” she explains, “but it was the biggest thing I ever did. It was a gutsy move that changed my life.”

Throughout her career, Grace has been a fierce advocate for her clients and a dedicated mentor to her colleagues. She has supervised numerous social workers and other mental health professionals, sharing her knowledge and passion for the field. Her work in supportive housing programs, particularly those serving individuals with severe mental illnesses and HIV/AIDS, highlights her commitment to helping vulnerable populations achieve stability and independence.

Grace’s story is one of resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. She has navigated the complexities of the mental health system, faced personal and professional challenges, and emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those she serves and works alongside.

In her current role at a federally qualified health center(FQHC), Grace continues to provide therapy and support, adapting to the unique challenges of the healthcare system while remaining focused on her mission. “It’s a different system, and it has its downsides, but I try to make the best of it,” she says.

Grace Paradiso’s journey is a powerful reminder of the impact that one dedicated individual can have. Her story inspires us to persevere in the face of adversity, to care deeply for those we serve, and to always strive for a better, more compassionate world.

Her life and career are a testament to the power of commitment, compassion, and resilience. Through her work, she has touched countless lives, providing support, advocacy, and care to those who need it most. Her story is not just a narrative of a professional journey, but a heartfelt reminder of the profound difference one person can make in the world.

Grace Paradiso, LCSW-R, earned her MSW from Fordham University in February 1995. With a robust background spanning direct care, management, and administrative roles, Grace has dedicated her career to serving disenfranchised populations in the mental health field. Her experience includes working with adults with psychiatric illness across various settings such as day treatment, inpatient care, residential programs, home-based care, utilization review, and community outpatient programs.

Currently based in Los Angeles, CA, Grace is a valued psychotherapist at one of the largest FQHC centers. She provides integrated healthcare services using SWEET ALL day, leveraging her passion for self-expression to inspire positive change in others, both personally and professionally. Beyond her clinical work, Grace is an avid athlete who relishes outdoor activities, plays guitar, tends to her herb garden, and adores cats.