Jessica Mora joined Sanar Institute in 2018 and currently serves as the Clinical Director of the Wellness Center. In this role, Jessica supports the Wellness Center development and growth while ensuring implementations of person-centered approaches for the individuals accessing services at Sanar. As a parallel process, Jessica maintains a supportive and trauma-informed environment virtually and in-person for staff, individuals impacted by gender-based violence, and community members.

Jessica defines her clinical approach as being a guide who navigates the clinical space as permitted by the individual engaging in therapy. In the therapeutic space, Jessica brings transparency, care, social justice focused healing, and acknowledgement of all factors impacting individuals in their journey to heal and thrive. Jessica’s approach is informed by the intersectionality and liberation psychology theories. Jessica believes in equitable access to therapeutic support both within the therapeutic alliance and community spaces.

Jessica identifies as a cisgender woman of color with strong ties to the lands of South America. She wants to continue in her journey to ensure access to healing practices and resources. In her own healing journey, Jessica enjoys intentionally connecting with nature and all four elements, and manual related activities.

Jessica Mora graduated from New Jersey City University (NJCU) in 2010 with a Bachelor’s in Political Science and History. She graduated with a Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University School of Social Work in 2012 with a focus on Advanced Generalist Practice and Programming. Jessica has a decade of professional experience in addressing gender-based violence within institutions, community, families, and individuals. Jessica’s training and certifications include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), TF-CBT, play and expressive art therapy, and Trauma Conscious Yoga Method (TCYM).