Today we’d like to introduce you to Luz Elena Arango.
Hi Luz, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
When I was 21 years old, I suffered a terrible car accident and since then, I am a wheelchair user and I have overcome many challenges in my life by being wheelchair-bound. I was also a single mother during much of that time. Since I arrived in this country, my first goal was to study to learn a new language. Years later, I graduated with a Master of Social Work degree from a university in South Florida. Accomplishments include a Professional Development presentation to Social Work students in Barry University’s School of Social Work, Miami Shores, FL.
I have presented several workshops in the university and the community, and for the National Association of Social Workers, Florida, Chapter, including Miami-Dade Unit, Broward/Nature Coast Units, as well as presented at the NASW-FL Annual Social Work Conference, June 2022, among others. Through this work, I am encouraged to work and advocate for communities and people with disabilities. I am the Pioneer for Abilities/Disabilities Task Force for the National Association of Social Workers, Florida Chapter.
As an immigrant, I have expertise in mental health and trauma; and have profound knowledge about the immigrant experience in this country. I am fluent in Spanish and English. In the mental health field and providing individual therapy, I have the skills in creating and implementing effective and individualized treatment plans considering the unique structure and culture of the individual and I have a strong background in encouraging patients to ensure that intervention plans are carried out effectively.
I am currently teaching classes at the School of Social Work at a university in Miami Lakes by applying the dual or bilingual language program used at the university to help the new students transition in the development of the language and continue with academic development.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been a challenging road, I have had health issues, especially chronic pain, related to my condition, a language barrier, and facing the stigma that a person with a physical disability is not capable to perform some tasks or accomplish some goals or dreams, but I never allowed these issues to affect my academic and professional career, my role as a mother, and my service in my community.
Because of my personal experiences with language barriers at that time, and my physical disability, I wanted to become a clinician counselor, I want to continue working especially with all the population who come from disadvantaged and abusive backgrounds, primarily speaking Spanish. As a Hispanic woman, I believe that I can assist this population in their language, which is a great need in South Florida. I can also say that I have met wonderful people along the way with good hearts that are open to helping others.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe you can tell us more about your work next?
I have been working in the mental health area assisting people to deal with depression and anxiety in individual therapy, as well as helping them to overcome their struggles and help them to achieve their goals. I am also enjoying this new journey of teaching classes at a university. I believe in education because in addition to being the way to access and acquire knowledge, it is the tool that is needed to have the ability to open understanding and even find harmony at a personal, work, and social level.
I am known for being responsible, professional, kind, courageous, brave, authentic, and joyful. I can say very humbly that I am so proud of myself for being active, I have raised my son and being a grandma, being a wife, and achieving my dreams of having a higher education.
I can provide individual therapy and workshops, and I want to continue growing professionally by providing individual therapy and selling products that can help with mental health, such as books, essential oils, and more. My focus is to speak about having a better living awareness. What sets me apart from others is the fact of being a wheelchair user, I love to encourage others, especially non-wheelchair users, to follow their dreams or paths, always with a good attitude, no matter the circumstances.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I am not a risk taker but it arises when we want to pursue our dreams, and I have my own quote “I am my own best client”. In that way, I can make a list of risk factors and protective factors as well before starting something new or when facing struggles. I avoid risks, I try to be careful in everyday life. I am the kind of person who thinks before acting and asks for permission when needed.
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