Member Spotlight

Jon Mozenter, LMFT

Tell us a little bit about yourself—are you a mental health professional? Have you had other jobs before this? Where are you in your journey as a mental health professional/affiliate? What inspired you to become a therapist/clinician/psychiatrist/social worker/lawyer/advocate, etc.,?

Hi—My name is Jon Mozenter. Proud member of LA-CAMFT since 2009. I am an LMFT working in the field since 2007. My familial (and sports team roots) are in Philadelphia but I have been an Angeleno for the past 30 years! I came into the field having worked for some time in the creative arts and, largely due to my own personal therapy, felt the calling to join this profession.

What areas of practice are you most passionate about today?  What kind of clients and modalities are you currently most interested in working with?

I have been working exclusively in private practice for the past 5 years but before then I worked a lot in addiction treatment settings. I genuinely enjoy working with a wide range of clients but particularly enjoy working with clients who struggle with substance use issues and with their families. I love family work, and couples work, and believe strongly in addressing family system and attachment issues. Mind-body work is also something I believe is foundational to client growth.

How did you learn about LA-CAMFT and what motivated you to join?

I learned about LA-CAMFT way back in my associate/intern days and heard that it was a community in which to build solid professional relationships. I joined in 2009 and immediately became involved on the Programming Committee with Lynne Azpeitia. It was a tremendous way to connect with experts in the field and engage in conversations as a liaison for LA-CAMFT. 

Since joining LA-CAMFT, what’s been the most helpful or valuable part for you so far?  Was there anything about the organization that has pleasantly surprised you?

LA-CAMFT has remained one of my hubs for community and fellowship in the field of mental health. LA-CAMFT relationships have led to career opportunities, friendships, learning and a sense of home among people who care deeply about making a difference. As someone who was involved in Programming (Selecting Speakers for CE presentations) many years ago (when we all gathered in person!!). I am so pleased with the cultivation/curation of speakers and the range of topics presented in workshops.

How has being part of this professional community impacted your work with clients, your practice, your confidence as a clinician, and how you feel about the work?

I cannot say enough about the respect I have for my fellow LA-CAMFT members. Between referral, collaboration, training opportunities and passion for the work I regularly feel my cup filled up whenever I am around this community. I hope I provide something similar for others.

Therapy work can feel isolating at times—how has being part of this group helped with that? What meaningful connections have you made through the organization? What’s been your experience of the LA-CAMFT community?

The shared belief in the prioritization of treating mental health connects so many of us and the depth of these connections is not something I take for granted. Seeing new faces all the time coming into the fold I am reminded about the positive impact LA-CAMFT had on my professional development. LA-CAMFT encourages participation, collaboration and advocacy for mental health, and I am impressed that the welcome I experienced many years ago persists to this day.

Are there any professional development opportunities (trainings, supervision, networking, advocacy, etc.), resources, trainings, or supports you’ve learned about through LA-CAMFT that have really stood out to you?

While the workshops have been a source of great supplemental training the last few years, I would be remiss if I did not mention how special my time was in the 3000 club. While I encourage all therapists working in western Los Angeles to participate in LA-CAMFT I think it’s particularly important for associates to join the organization and take advantage of community and training.

What are you most excited about as you continue your journey with LA-CAMFT?

I plan to stay involved in LA-CAMFT for as long as I am practicing in Los Angeles. I hope to be more involved in leadership and advocacy in the future, especially as my children grow older and my time becomes mine again!! As many wise people have said—It takes a village!

Anything else you’d like your fellow LA-CAMFT members to know about you or your experience with LA-CAMFT?

I lastly want to speak in solidarity with the recent message shared by Jenni Wilson about being at a “moral and ethical crossroads as clinicians and citizens.” Us folks in the helper’s professions occupy a unique place in our society where we provide safe space for all while prioritizing the safety of those victimized by abuse and neglect. We need to speak truth to power when we see the harmful damages caused by broken systems. And we need to allow our clients/others to find their way with autonomy and self-determination. Our work is as important as ever and I am so honored to be doing this work.  

Jon Mozenter, LMFT, is in private practice in Santa Monica and online, and works with clients who struggle with substance use issues and with their families. Website:TherapyEmpowers.com

LA-CAMFT invites two members each month to be featured in the Member Spotlight section of Voices - a new member (less than 5 years), alongside a long-time member (5+ years).  Candidates are chosen by current chapter leadership based on their regular participation in and contributions to LA-CAMFT. If you are an LA-CAMFT member and would like to be considered, please reach out to MembershipChair@LACAMFT.org and introduce yourself with the subject line “Member Spotlight Consideration” for more information.