Jesse Rodriguez-Hammond, MS Ed Psy
School Based Mental Health Therapist
Jesse Rodriguez, MS Ed Psy, is a dedicated mental health professional with extensive experience in teen, family, couples, and group counseling – primarily working with teens on navigating everyday stress, depression, understanding and coping with trauma and navigating a world when you have ADHD. Currently Jesse is a doctoral student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at American International College, and holds a Master of Science in Education and Psychology from Capella University. His background includes providing crisis intervention, stabilization, and community referrals, ensuring individuals and families receive the necessary support during challenging times.
Previously, as a community counselor for Intensive Placement Stabilization through DCFS, Jesse has played a vital role in helping families stabilize and thrive. From 2016 to 2022, he provided clinical staffing in educational settings, focusing on assessing and managing behavioral and mental health concerns for students through strengths-based support and motivation strategies. His expertise extends to implementing IEP and 504 plans, where he worked to ensure that educational needs were met with compassion and skill. Jesse possesses extensive knowledge in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and person-centered therapies. Also, drawing from his personal experience as a foster parent to over 16 teenagers, and adopting 6 teens, he offers unique insights into trauma and its impact on youth, nurturing positive outcomes in their lives. Additionally, Jesse taught educational advocacy through DCFS at the University of Illinois, general psychology through IVCC, and has provided lectures on trauma-informed classroom management to help educators create supportive environments.
His commitment to community engagement includes conducting Positive Parenting Classes for biological parents seeking to regain custody, offering essential support during their recovery from substance abuse and neglect. Furthermore, Jesse assists both adults and children with ADHD in developing essential skills tailored to their unique needs, promoting personal growth and success. Through his dedication to mental health advocacy and community support, Jesse is a trusted partner in navigating life’s challenges, believing in the power of connection, understanding, and strength-based approaches to foster healing and resilience.