Her Story
About Amanda
Amanda Cooper-Calderon is a Faith-Based Therapist and Clinical Professor with 13 years of experience in faith-based therapy and social work. She holds an associate’s degree in liberal arts from Erie County Community College, a bachelor’s degree in social work with a minor in sociology from Buffalo State College, and a master’s degree in social sciences from Daemen University. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), she is also completing a faith-based, trauma-informed inner healing coaching certificate to further strengthen her ability to support individuals through their healing journeys.
Through her practice at God’s Healing Space in Orchard Park, New York, Amanda integrates biblical principles and Scripture into clinical approaches, helping clients address emotional and mental health challenges while deepening their relationship with Jesus Christ. Her professional background includes serving as a school social worker, satellite clinician providing therapy in schools, housing specialist at Buffalo Psychiatric Center, and spending nine years with the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities in group homes. She also contributes to the broader mental health community through professional memberships, educational presentations, and discussions focused on mental health and historical trauma.
Amanda’s professional journey is deeply shaped by her faith and personal resilience. Having experienced a challenging childhood in foster care, she credits God’s protection and guidance for helping her overcome adversity and pursue three degrees and a meaningful career in community mental health. She is committed to encouraging healing through compassion, faith, and evidence-informed therapeutic practices, while continuing to grow as a clinician, educator, and faith-based mental health professional. Daily prayer and meditation remain important sources of strength as she serves others and lives out her commitment to faith and family.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Amanda
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to God’s guidance and protection throughout my challenging childhood in foster care. Through daily prayer and meditation, I draw strength and purpose from my faith, allowing me to share my story and help others.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to be kind and patient with themselves. You don’t need to have all the answers. Trust in the Lord, seek His guidance, and allow Him to lead your path with confidence and purpose.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is addressing the complex needs of individuals facing difficult life circumstances. My own experience overcoming a challenging childhood in foster care, earning three degrees, and building a career in community mental health has shown me the importance of resilience, compassion, and creating opportunities for others to overcome their challenges.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me, both personally and professionally, are faith and family. They guide my decisions, keep me grounded, and inspire me to lead with compassion, integrity, and purpose.
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