BOARD MEMBERS

 Vannia founded Mental State Foundation in 2020 due to her experience with both living with mental illness as well as working as a mental health professional. She has a Bachelor of Science in Cognitive Science with a specialization in Clinical Aspects of Cognition from UCSD and a Master of Social Work from USC. Vannia works as a full-time therapist and spends her free time engaging in creativity either through music, art, or writing.  

 Abby is a founding board member. She seeks to normalize the use of mental health services and decrease stigma toward mental illness. She graduated from Cal State Long Beach with her Master of Social Work. Abby works full-time in the mental health field and dedicates her love and care to her husband and two young daughters.  

 Kristine is a founding board member.  She is an advocate for those who struggle with seeking mental health services due to cultural impacts, especially within the Asian Pacific Islander community. Kristine has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Social Behavior from UCI and a Master of Social Work from CSUF.  She is a full-time therapist and enjoys music (especially KPOP), traveling, and spending time with family and friends. 

Gaby has been voted as our President-Elect of the Board for the year 2025. She came on board due to her passion for mental health equity in BIPOC communities. Gaby has a Master of Art in Marriage and Family Therapy.  She is a full-time therapist with a focus on underserved communities. Outside of her work in mental health, she is passionate about dance and music.