Dr. Avendaño works as clinical consultant for the Children’s Mental Health Division at the Department of Human Services, State of Minnesota. She is a consultant for Ambit Network, Clinical Supervisor for the Child Development Policing Program with the Minnesota Child Response Center at the Department of Family Social Science and Institute for Child Development at the University of Minnesota, since 2004, as well a consultant for the St. Paul head start programs. Previously from 1998-2008 she was the Director for the Mental Health Programs at Centro (formerly Centro Cultural Chicano), a leading Twin Cities Spanish speaking social services agency. Her training includes evidence-based treatments and many years of experience treating immigrant families with a clinical focus on trauma.

Dr. Avendaño earned her Doctorate of Psychology degree from the University of St. Thomas. She earned her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy post-master’s certificate at St. Mary’s University. Her undergraduate degree is from the College of St. Catherine. Her dedication to serving the Hispanic community leads her professional practice.