Citlaly Gonzalez

Adler School of Professional Psychology, Psy D in Clinical Psychology, degree in progress, anticipated graduation in October 2012
Trained at the Developmental Disabilities Family Clinics from 2008-2009

Citlaly' bio
Citlaly Gonzalez completed her diagnostic practicum at UIC's Family Clinic under the supervision of Dr. Lucy Perez-Hark, Psy D and Dr. Lorna Sanchez, Psy D. During this time she also received training from Dr. Manghi, Psy D, LMFT including training with the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). She was particularly interested in a practicum with UIC because of her strong interest in working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder and the opportunities offered for bilingual work on the Hispanic team. Since finishing her externship with UIC, Citlaly has worked with Advocate Illinois Masonic's Pediatric Development Center, United Stand's Bilingual Center, and Catholic Schools in Chicago doing psychological evaluations and providing therapy services to children and adults. Most recently, she also helped develop a family interaction and exercise program at UIC for children on the spectrum and continues to participate with Grupo Salto, a not-for-profit organization providing family support to Latino families of children with autism, along with staff from the Family Clinic.  

Citlaly's experience with IDHD and the Family Clinic

I feel very fortunate to have been able to train with the Family Clinic for my first clinical practicum. During my diagnostic practicum I learned how to use various psychological tests in evaluations, how to interview parents and children, how to interpret behavior, and the art of providing thorough and sensitive feedback. With the help of the excellent supervision I received I learned to do this through culturally-fair lens that took into consideration race, nation of origin, bilingualism, socioeconomic status, disabilities, and various other systemic factors that affect the client. The training, supervision and support helped me develop a strong foundation of clinical skills which have continued to develop throughout my career. Working with a multidisciplinary team was an incredible way to foster connections and learn from other fields in order to better understand the client's functioning and for my own professional development. One of my favorite experiences through the Family Clinic has been my work with Grupo Salto, a support group for families with children with autism. I have continued my work with Grupo Salto which I began with my diagnostic practicum and have continued through the subsequent years. Throughout my training at various sites, Grupo Salto remains the one that I describe as closest to my heart. The dedication staff, volunteers, and the families show embodies the spirit of the supportive culture fostered by the Family Clinic.