Saludos (Hello!). My name is Dr. Jodi Berger Cardoso. I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) social worker and activist. I received a master’s degree in social work from Columbia University (2004) and a PhD (2012) in social work from the University of Texas at Austin. In addition to clinical practice, I am a full time professor at the University of Houston, Graduate College of Social Work. The focus of my research, teaching, and practice has been on immigrant rights, as well as the treatment of trauma disorders in immigrant and refugee children, adolescents, and adults.
The healing journey is a humbling process. Have you ever felt frustrated that you cannot outsmart your trauma history by thinking your way out of it? Do you avoid the painful memories, thinking it will help, but realize it finds its way back into your life even though you thought you managed to quarantine it. I know how that feels and I know how hard it is to rewire the neurobiology of your brain to allow for new and less painful experiences. Well, if this is you, then you are not alone. I feel this too. I have spent the last 20 years conducting research, facilitating healing and therapy, and collaborating with clients and community towards a shared vision of wellness. I approach this work from an anti-oppressive framework and believe that clients know what they need to heal and foster their own growth. I have learned that relational and complex trauma can interfere with our ability to feel connected to the people in our lives and to manage stress in our bodies. My role is to help clients walk through the pain so they can live their best lives. I have received training in play therapy, family therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy, and have experience treating complex posttraumatic stress disorder, mood and anxiety disorders, and grief/loss in children, adolescents, and adults. I also have extensive experience with assessment and diagnosis and have conducted mental health evaluations for immigrant and refugee children, adolescents, and adults seeking immigration relief. Finally, I have a deep connection with helping clients process normal bereavement, as well as complex grief.
About me I grew up in New Orleans, Louisiana. I am a divorced single mother and I have two kids, 13 years old and 7 years old. Parenting is a lot of work; it is the toughest job you will ever love. Music drives my soul and brings me joy and stability. I have a vast appreciation for most genres of music. Most people are surprised to learn that I love punk rock and heavy metal music. I see a few concerts a month, ranging from local bands to big stars. I will even travel to another city to see a concert. My happy place outside of the city is the mountains. I have recently hiked trails in Sedona, Banff, Red Rocks, and Big Bend. When I am not parenting, rocking, or hiking, I like to take spin at a local Houston studio; do reformer Pilates; and visit local art galleries in town.
