JENNIFER "JENNA" HILLMAN- LICENSED MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPIST, LMFT #52645
MY MISSION AS A THERAPIST
My mission is to help individuals and families learn their own unique life rhythm...basically, I want to help people craft a way of living that makes sense of the world around them and brings them into the best version of themselves.
ON A PERSONAL NOTE
Writing this bio statement has been a daunting task for me. How do I sum up my life in such a way that captures me honestly, with integrity, and in such a way that still conveys that I am a skilled professional???? You can let me know if I was successful in my goal once you are finished exploring my website. I would love your feedback!
So, the basics…I absolutely love being a therapist! Being a therapist isn’t a job to me, it’s simply who God created me to be. I find enormous strength, comfort and confidence in this calling. Growing up I was always watching the dynamics between people. It was fascinating to me. I had difficulty engaging with others, but I was comfortable observing human behavior.
Fast forward many many many many years, (I recently turned 41 and am feeling a little “old” these days. Ha!) … I graduated from Bethel Seminary here in San Diego with my master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy. Because I obtained my degree in a seminary, my faith and my therapy philosophies are very integrated. (For more information about this, please see the section labeled, “Theory of Change”).
My work experience includes being the Director of the Women and Children’s Center at the San Diego Rescue Mission. I have also worked with military families at Veteran’s Village of San Diego in their Welcome Home Family Program. Currently I am in private practice in the Clairemont area of San Diego.
I’ve been married for almost 16 years and my husband Marcus and I have a seven-year-old son, Chance. Being a mom is by far one of my favorite roles in my life. It is such an honor to watch Chance learn and grow. I’m humbled by how the Lord uses my kiddo to teach me of His love for us. It’s hard to imagine that as much as I love and adore my son, the way the Lord feels about me (and you) is much more than what I feel as a mother. It blows my mind every time I stop to reflect on that! How deep the Father’s love for us indeed!
Therapy is one of my passions. I would love to meet with you and partner with you on your journey to becoming the person God created you to be. I truly believe that there is a specific rhythm of life that the Lord has for each of us. Let’s find yours!
MY LIFETIME HIGHLIGHTS
Historical:
Became a Christian at 10 years old sitting on my Papa's couch as he told me about his best friend, Jesus
Graduated with BA in English Education, High School and Junior High English
Lived overseas working with a humanitarian organization in Croatia
Graduated with MA in marriage and family therapy from Bethel Seminary San Diego
Director of San Diego Rescue Mission Women and Children’s Center
Clinician at Veterans Village of San Diego, working with the Welcome Home Family Program
Guest lecturer in the social work department at a local university
Current:
Business owner of Kadenca Family Therapy, Inc
Volunteer at a local elementary school to teach social skills to 1st and 2nd graders
Partner with local preschools to help train staff in various areas (see “list of seminars available”)
Married for 16 years
Mother of a lively and fun-loving seven year old with special needs
CERTIFICATIONS:
Level One Attachment Specialist from American Association of Christian Counselors, 2014
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional from International Association of Trauma Professionals, 2016
2 Day Intensive Certificate Training: Dialectical Behavior Therapy from Pesi Seminars, 2018
2 Day Intensive Certificate Training: Neuroscience and Self- Regulation Techniques for Kids with Autism, ADHD, and Sensory Disorders from Pesi Seminars, 2019
About Me According to SD Voyager: