Gabriela Leon-Gonzales
Gabriela León-Gonzales is a Clinical Social Work professional and passionate advocate, currently serving as a Victim Services Advocate at Tri-County S.P.E.A.K.S. in Charleston, South Carolina, specializing in victim services and trauma-informed care. She brings extensive experience in crisis response, case management, and community engagement, with a strong commitment to supporting underserved communities.
Gabriela is pursuing her Master of Arts in Clinical/Medical Social Work at Fordham Graduate School of Social Service, on track to graduate in 2026. She has also completed specialized training, including EMDR certification and the National Child Traumatic Stress Network’s Resource Parent Curriculum, reflecting her dedication to evidence-based, trauma-informed practice. Her professional journey has included roles in community clinics, student ministry, and social services internships, allowing her to develop a well-rounded skill set in patient advocacy and holistic support.
Beyond her professional work, Gabriela is committed to systems-level advocacy and promoting equity and healing within service delivery. She actively engages in community outreach, public education, and volunteer initiatives that aim to prevent sexual violence and support survivors. Gabriela’s work is driven by her values of compassion, resilience, and empowerment, ensuring that every client she serves has access to safety, hope, and the resources needed for recovery and growth.
• EMDR Trained
• Resource Parent Curriculum
• Practice Self-Regulation
• Fordham Graduate School of Social Service - MSW
• Universidad de Murcia - BA
• Queens University of Charlotte - BHS
• Central Piedmont Community College - AA
• National Association of Social Workers
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a strong educational foundation, the guidance of exceptional mentors, and a lifelong eagerness to learn and grow. I am continually inspired by opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills, both professionally and personally. Outside of work, I enjoy reading and exploring new dining experiences, which help me stay curious and engaged with the world around me.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to never give up on my goals. I’ve learned the importance of identifying my passion and pursuing it with determination, knowing that persistence and dedication are key to achieving long-term success.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to maintain a positive mindset and stay focused on your goals. Continuously pursue education to strengthen your skills, and recognize the immense value of networking—actively join professional groups and communities to build relationships and open doors for growth and opportunity.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is ensuring that people know we are here to provide support in any way we can. At the same time, staying up-to-date with the constant changes and advancements in the industry presents both a challenge and an opportunity, as it allows us to continually improve our services and better meet the needs of those we serve.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are staying focused on my goals, persevering through challenges without giving up, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.