Amanda Barrios Griggs, M.S.W., MT-BC, is a senior program associate with Advocates for Human Potential (AHP). She is a macro social worker and board-certified music therapist. She has clinical experience working with a diverse range of clients, including adults with chemical dependency and serious mental illness, at-risk youth, children and adults with developmental disabilities, active-duty military, unsheltered persons, detained and incarcerated individuals, non citizens, and survivors of domestic violence. Prior to working as lead therapist in an acute, locked psychiatric hospital, she contracted with numerous interdisciplinary facilities and community groups throughout California. Her subject matter expertise includes PTSD, complex trauma, and intergenerational community trauma.

 

Motivated by her experiences in direct services, Ms.Griggs pursued an M.S.W. in administration and community development. There, she shifted her focus to human rights advocacy and serving communities through systems change. She provided pre-release support for individuals exiting the California Department of Corrections and supported the evaluation, research, and organizational development of several programs. She has specialized education in international social work and immigration issues, consensus organizing, lobbying, management, and leadership. 

Ms.Griggs holds a Master of Social Work in administration and community development from San Diego State University. She is a member of the Native American Council for California’s National Association of Social Work and the San Diego chapter of the Network for Social Work Management. She is actively engaged in the work of decolonizing herself, her work, and her profession.