Social Work Month: A Note to My Clients 

This month is Social Work month, a time when many of us social workers reflect on the meaning of our work, the privilege of walking alongside others, and the humanity that connects us all. For me it’s been alongside many expecting and postpartum mothers. Ironically, this reflection has come at a moment when life reminded me (quite clearly) of the similarities of our human experiences.

I was expecting to continue sessions a little longer before welcoming my baby and going on maternity leave. I still had a list of things I planned to do in the next few weeks!  However, my little one arrived almost two weeks earlier than expected. Because of that, I didn’t get the chance to have the final sessions and goodbyes that I had hoped for with some of you. I’ve thought about that over this past week.

In this first week with a newborn, there have been moments that are beautiful, overwhelming, tender, and exhausting. During those moments, I’ve found myself thinking about many of you! Many in this journey of motherhood postpartum or currently pregnant yourself. I’ve thought about the courage, vulnerability, and strength you bring into the therapy room each week. Your willingness to show up honestly, to do hard emotional work, and to keep moving forward even when things feel uncertain has stayed with me.

Those reflections have helped me find strength in my own moments of vulnerability this week. Social Work Month often highlights the idea that therapists help their clients, but one of the truths of this work is that the relationship is not one-directional. While it is my role to support, guide, and hold space, I am continually moved by the resilience and humanity of the people I work with. Your stories, your growth, and your determination to care for yourselves and your families are things I carry with me.

Although we weren’t able to have a final session together as planned, please know that I’ve been thinking of you. Our team is here to continue supporting you during this time. Many of you have already scheduled with another therapist in our office, but if you haven’t yet, you’re welcome to reach out to the office to schedule as we discussed. Someone from our team may also reach out to help coordinate next steps. Continuity of care is important, and there are wonderful therapists in the practice who can support you until I return from maternity leave. 

Thank you for the trust you placed in me and for the work you allowed me to be a part of. It is something I hold with deep respect and gratitude.

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With appreciation,

Your Social Worker therapist - Nalleli Cornejo Martinez, LCSW-S PMH-C 

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