Dr. Sylvia Ortiz

MSW, LCSW

Sylvia has been in the psychology field since 1998. She started her career as a Senior Social Worker for the Orange Count Department of Social Services Agency investigating cases of child abuse and neglect. During this period, she taught parenting classes and assisted parents through the process of family reunification. In 2006, Sylvia went to work as Court Mediator and Court Investigator for Orange County Superior Court working under the Family Court Services Division. During this period, she mediated and settled cases of couples going through the painful process of divorce and separation. As a Forensic Investigator, her job entailed being the expert witness on the stand and making recommendations regarding the children's best interest.

Since 2013, Sylvia has been in private practice in the city of Tustin, California, where she sees children, teens, adults, and couples. She is an eclectic clinician drawing from countless modalities depending on the needs of the client. She graduated from California State University, Long Beach with a Master's Degree in Social Work in 2001 and National University with a degree in Behavioral Science in 1999.

Sylvia believes education is a life long journey and to date she continues being an active participant in the mental health and education field.

In her spare time, Sylvia may be found in the gym court competing professionally in Women's Volleyball. She believes that in order to be the best in our chosen field, we must have outlets for self care. Her additional hobbies include reading, traveling and dancing.

Panel Information

SATURDAY, APRIL 15, 2023

11:00 AM

Healthcare | Gender Disparities in Health and Healthcare

Gender differences in health and the use of health services are a long-standing concern for the U.S. medical system. This conversation will offer a glimpse into resources, options, and solutions on ways women can take control of their health today and advocate for access to equitable health care. We will consider both the scientific bases of specific diseases affecting Latinas and the social, cultural, economic and environmental factors that increase risk and limit access to therapy. As well discuss the barriers that Latinos face when seeking mental health care, whether it be language barriers, stigma behind mental illness, one’s legal status, etc.