We had the good fortune of connecting with Erik Escareño, DSW, LCSW and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erik, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
Wombat Mental Health Services (Wombat MHS) has made a positive social impact through its supportive and attentive presence within a number of underserved communities. We have become a beacon for those who have felt marginalized and overlooked in their efforts to seek mental health care. Our patients experience a sense of validation; feeling seen and heard when accessing our mental health services.

The culture and community within Wombat MHS has organically manifested into a haven for those navigating their mental health journey through a decolonized approach.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Wombat Mental Health Services, LCSW PC (Wombat MHS) is a team of skilled mental health practitioners deeply committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for its clients. We understand the importance of providing equitable access to culturally appropriate, non-judgmental, and affirmative mental health services for individuals from communities who have historically faced barriers in accessing care. We prioritize our Deaf, Disabled, LGBTQIA2S, BIPOC, Kink, and Sex Worker communities. We are fiercely dedicated to listening and collaborating with our clients as we work toward achieving their goals. I am most proud of designing a reindigenized theoretical framework that is utilized by Wombat MHS for creating a restorative environment which supports our patients and staff.

Bringing Wombat MHS to fruition has been the most arduous labor of love; working toward the realization of a dream that began as a murky idea. When explaining this plan to my colleagues, I was usually met with skepticism, doubt, and discouragement. As I attempted to explain this concept to others it was usually dismissed as an unrealistic business model which only served to fuel my determination to see this vision through.

As a Two-Spirit Medicine person who has embraced the guidance of ancestors, community, and spirit I have channeled my energy and power to make this vision into a reality. I have tried to face each challenge that arose with dignity and curiosity. I have refused to give up and, over time, cultivated a space for community to flourish.

Along the way, I have learned to trust my intuition, be kind to myself, and practice acceptance. Having never done this before, I have learned to appreciate this arduous journey along the red road. The obstacles I faced seemed so massive. Yet by listening to my body, remembering my ancestors, and aligning my spirit, I was able to reframe those challenges into tangible possibilities.

I am magical. Despite numerous obstacles in my life, I was able to face and overcome each one. Through my own healing, I have been able to dedicate my knowledge and focus toward others.

My approach and concepts now draw others who want to help further our mission of creating accessible mental health for our underserved communities. I am humbled to know that.
What I dream, I will create. What I create I will share.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My favorite to let my spirit shine and share that joy with others, the Moonlight Rollerway skating rink.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to honor and recognize the land I am on, guidance of my ancestors, and community.

A big ShoutOut to all of our Wombateers and Wom(baes)! It is with our dedicated team, family, friends, and colleagues that Wombat MHS exists and continues to serve its communities.

Website: www.wombatmhs.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wombatmhs/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wombatmhs/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wombatMHS

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WombatMHS

Other: Wombat Mental Health Services provides equitable access to culturally appropriate, non-judgmental, and affirmative mental health services to Deaf, Disabled, LGBTQIA2S, BIPOC, and individuals challenged with accessing mental health services. Donate: https://buy.stripe.com/3csg0Pbzf2J3b7y145 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wombatmhs?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.