Hey there!
I'm
Victoria Montenegro, LCSW
I am here to assist in student athletes' personal development and character in efforts to help them build a strong foundation for their well-being that will lead to decreased mental health challenges and consistent success in life.
Lack of communication is the fundamental cause and continuation of stigma around mental health and athletes. Let us start building some dialogue.
I aspire to become an advocate for student athletes everywhere. As a therapist, I bring to the table experience as a former student athlete, as a coach, a board member (administration perspective) and as a researcher. I understand the sports culture and the unique stressors that student athletes face on a day to day basis.
Growing up in Palmdale, California, I played various sports to the age of 18, and I specialized in softball. During high school one of my best friend’s sports career ended due to a sports related injury. He fell into a deep depression. Being an adolescent/young adult at the time I did not know anything about depression. Conversations regarding mental health were never a topic of discussion. All I observed was his behaviors and attitude significantly decline. To be open and transparent he was my inspiration and motivation to get into the field of social work.
What I am Known for in The Field of Sports....
My Why....
Former Assistant PGF Travel Softball Coach
2 yrs
Former Student Athlete: Specialized in Softball
5+ yrs
Researcher/Presenter topic: Student athlete mental health
Current
JV High School Softball head coach
1 yr
Experience . .
therapist specializing in sexual offense charges/sexual behavioral issues & trauma
4 yrs
Working with Adolescents on probation
10.5 yrs
PSYCHIATRIC SOCIAL WORKER/CONSULTANT FOR LOS ANGELES COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH
2 yrs
COLLABORATING WITH PROBATION, DCFS, COURT SYSTEM, PSYCHIATRISTS, SCHOOLS, COMMUNITY SERVICES & FAMILIES
4 yrs
I'm obsessed with . . .
Meditate on Daily Devotional/Scripture
Read Personal Development Books
Plan My Day
Exercise/Gym
Drink Tea
Listen to Music
Talk to Friends/Family on Phone
Write in Gratitude Journal
Listen to Guided Meditaitions
for daily self care...
MLB Ballparks Across the Nation
Latin America/Caribbean
Museums/Parks/Historical Sites
New Coffee Shops & Coastal Towns
Traveling to...
Dodger Baseball, Reality Competition TV Shows, Scented Candles & Decaf Mocha Almond Milk Lattes
can't live without...
— Former Athlete
"Coach Victoria was one of the best coaches I've ever had. Whenever I had something troubling me I looked forward to our practices so that I could ask for her advice on the topic. She was the perfect balance of someone I could confide in and an amazing coach that helped me become a better ball player."
"Gabby is a big sister presence + a kick butt coach all in one! I didn't realize how much of getting healthy was the mental work. She helped me get back on track after having my 2nd baby." — Marie H.
"Gabby is a big sister presence + a kick butt coach all in one!"
"I thought I never had time for my own health between 3 kids and a tiring job. Gabby taught me how to make time for and truly care for ME." — Jasmine V.
"Gabby taught me how to make time for and truly care for ME."
I'm Ready
Ready for the next step in your journey? Find out if we're a good fit, no strings attached!