Meet Tiffany Orozco, LCSW | PsychoTherapist & Mental Health Consultant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tiffany Orozco, LCSW and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tiffany, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Growing up as an African American young woman in East Oakland, becoming first generation college student=, and being raised by a single mother was the catalyst to me wanting to do and have more. Being from the inner city, I witnessed a lot of violence, exposed to poverty, and even worse I saw firsthand what untreated Mental Health can do to individuals, families, and an entire community. There was limited resources, a HUGE STIGMA, and significant trauma.

As I progressed through high school, eventually taking two years off then deciding to go to community college after not being able to land a job. I began taking African American studies courses which prompted my interest and provided valuable insight into things that I had not yet learned about generational trauma and its impact on society. I soon immersed myself into a 7 year journey from barely passing high school to ultimately landing myself in Graduate School to study Social Work. It was then I decided I wanted to give back to my community and offer services to those that were reluctant to seek support. Rising Above Cultural Expectations Mental Health/Counseling evolved as a way for me to heal myself and help other heal. The work that I do daily shows that the stigma of those seeking MEntal Health is no longer just that a Stigma.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Rising Above Cultural Expectations is a Private Mental Health Practice that offers therapy, life-coaching and consultation care to youth, young and older adults seeking a greater understanding of their emotional wellbeing.

The name of my practice is unique in of itself I’m most proud of myself and the resilience that have gotten me to where I am today. R.A.C.E, is an inclusive to all cultures as I would like for my clients to feel welcomed, not judged and safe when they walk through my office door or present on my telehealth screen.

I’m a first generation college student that knows firsthand the struggle of limited or no support growing up and or navigating through life and systems. My journey has not been easy at all it took a lot of patience, tears sweat and my own personal therapist to help me sort out my challenges and heal from them.

I want the world and those that took the time to read my story to know that its never to late, despite what you been through you are worthy and enough. Trust your feelings and intuition and ask for help when needed.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oakland landscape has changed however, I would always suggest eating at local family own restaurants. My favorite food is Mexican food I know where to get the best tacos, burritos, and tortas. The Fruitvale district is the place to go for that.

As for entertainment San Francisco and Walnut Creek is the best areas for that.

I don’t really hang out much but I do indulge in a lot of self-care activities, such as massages, mani/pedis and an occasional lunch date in Concord; Yard House, Crepe La Fontain, Benihana. In the mood for some sweets then head over to Crumbl Cookies!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I was fortunate enough to have a few people in my life that mentored supported and encouraged me to go back to school to obtain my Master’s Degree in Social Work.

My dear husband Juan the one that deserves an honorary Masters degree, as his love and support never waivered during my 7 year journey. Thank you Mi Amor

My mentor and friend Erica H. if it wasn’t for your support, and encouragement I wouldn’t have made it through three years of Grad School, Working full-time, raising my nephew and completing an two-year internship. Your the best!

I would like to also dedicate my shoutout to my mother as well for raising such a tenacious, and fearless daughter. You raised four children on your own Thank you for showing me what strength and perseverance looks like.

Website: https://www.ryesingaboveexpectations.com/

Instagram: @ryseabovetheirexpectations

Image Credits
R.A.C.E Photo is my logo and currently pending trademark. Photo Tiffany Orozco Quote: Denice Frohman